Overview
- Multiple outlets reported on Tuesday that rival executives believe the Tigers want to trade two-time AL Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal as the Aug. 3, 6 p.m. ET deadline approaches.
- Ken Rosenthal and others named top expected inquirers as the Rays, Brewers, Braves, Yankees and Dodgers though the Los Angeles Times reported the Dodgers were not actively pursuing a move right now.
- The Tigers are seeking a package that includes a controllable major-league starter plus significant prospect capital, a demand that has limited offers given Skubal’s impending free agency after 2026.
- Skubal’s health concerns have eased since elbow surgery as he posted a 2.70 ERA with strong strikeout totals after returning from the injured list on June 13, but his innings total remains modest and factors into valuation.
- Insiders warn Detroit’s leverage has weakened after a recent losing streak and some predict the club could also move Casey Mize, a step that would force the front office to sell the season to accelerate a roster retooling.