Skubal Contract Gap Spurs Trade Interest

Tarik Skubal has become the centerpiece of MLB offseason chatter after back-to-back Cy Young–caliber seasons, and a large contract gap with the Detroit Tigers — the club’s prior offer was roughly $80 million over four years while Skubal’s baseline ask is reported near $400 million — has pushed rival teams to consider trading for him. Teams linked to Skubal include the Yankees, Red Sox, Mariners, Mets, Dodgers and Giants, and front offices say acquiring him would cost multiple top prospects or major young pitchers. Reported scenarios range from a Mariners three‑for‑one to Boston offers centered on top prospects like Payton Tolle or Connelly Early, while Yankees discussions are said to avoid dealing untouchables such as Aaron Judge and Cam Schlittler. Executives warn of the roster-and-prospect risk — citing parallels to the Juan Soto deal — because Skubal could reach free agency after the 2026 season. Detroit is believed to prefer retaining him if possible, but if it trades him it would likely demand substantial assets, including multiple top-level starting pitchers plus premium position-player prospects. Other offseason notes include Braves DH flexibility after Marcell Ozuna’s trade veto, potential Mets interest in Ozuna or Kyle Schwarber, and Royals possible pursuit of Jesse Winker.