Dodgers Among 4 Teams Linked to Potential Tarik Skubal Trade

The MLB trade deadline is still two months away, but Detroit Tigers ace and reigning American League MVP Tarik Skubal is expected to be the biggest name on the market.

As of now, it remains to be seen whether or not the Tigers shop Skubal, but Detroit's losing record might be the reason that Skubal goes elsewhere before August.

Several MLB executives recently revealed the potential return for Skubal in a trade, and GMs such as Andrew Friedman of the Los Angeles Dodgers and AJ Preller of the San Diego Padres were named as those who could make a run for him.

Now, rival executives name four teams who might start a "bidding war" for Skubal, according to Bob Nightengale of USA Today.

"Now that it's becoming inevitable that the free-falling Detroit Tigers may have no choice but to trade two-time Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal at the deadline, rival executives believe the bidding will come down to four finalists that not only can afford the remainder of his $32 million contract, but will also be willing to give up prized prospects: The Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Yankees, Toronto Blue Jays and San Diego Padres," Nightengale wrote.

The list is no surprise, and the Dodgers and Padres have been aggressive at the deadline time and time again.

Where Does Skubal End Up?

Right now, Skubal is working his way back after he underwent surgery to remove loose bodies in his elbow.

Still, the Tigers are trending in the wrong direction, and if they can get a few prospects for a two-month rental of Skubal, it might make sense to move on from him and think about the future.

As we have seen, Preller has been aggressive and made it no secret that he will send prospects galore to improve the roster.

Friedman and the Dodgers also have the same sentiment, and LA also would be able to get ahead of the free agency sweepstakes and offer Skubal a massive deal to stay there long-term.

As time goes on, the Skubal market should heat up.

Related: MLB Execs Weigh in on Potential Tarik Skubal Price Amid Trade Rumors

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This story was originally published May 25, 2026 at 11:29 PM.