Skubal Expected to Sign Before Lockout
Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Tarik Skubal is expected to sign a contract before the Dec. 1 lockout, according to ESPN MLB insider Jeff Passan. The two-time Cy Young winner can now speak with all 30 Major League Baseball teams following the conclusion of a five-day negotiating period.
Passan stated that Skubal is "far and away the best player in this class" and identified the Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Mets as the two most obvious suitors due to their status as having the highest payrolls in baseball. By signing before the Dec. 1 lockout, Skubal would maximize his potential earnings before potential payroll restrictions are implemented.
Skubal, a 29-year-old left-hander, is by far the best free agent on the open market. The sweepstakes for his services officially began after the negotiating window closed, allowing him to explore options across the league.
Financial Expectations and Competing Interest
The Chicago Cubs have expressed a strong desire to sign Skubal but are skeptical they can compete financially. According to Passan, the Cubs doubt they will be willing to match dollars well in excess of $300 million, with expectations for the contract potentially reaching the $400 million-plus range.
Other teams have also entered the conversation. The San Diego Padres are seeking a rotation anchor, a need highlighted by the fact that both Michael King and Nick Pivetta are free agents.
Los Angeles Connection
Beyond the financial metrics, personal preference may play a significant role in Skubal's decision. On SI freelance writer Ricardo Sandoval reported that Skubal loved his time in Los Angeles and reportedly wants to return assuming the Dodgers offer him the contract he wants.
Sandoval noted that Skubal posted a 2.61 ERA, 60 strikeouts, and a 1.04 WHIP in 62 innings across 10 starts for the Dodgers during his previous tenure with the team. This statistical performance underscores the value he brings to a rotation, even as the broader market evaluates his worth in the context of the upcoming lockout.