The Los Angeles Dodgers have made headlines this offseason by signing the top free agent closer on the market in Edwin Diaz to a three-year, $69 million deal.
The Dodgers still have needs to address in the outfield and LA is reportedly still in the mix for Kyle Tucker. As for the trade market, the Dodgers are expected to swing a deal but could they do so for Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal?
The defending champions trading for Skubal has become an interesting topic in the last couple of days, especially since the Dodgers rotation doesn’t necessarily need the two-time Cy Young winner.
Dodgers Nation’s Doug McKain, who is currently at the Winter Meetings in Orlando, FL, revealed the rumblings amongst MLB insiders are that the rumors aren’t true. Therefore, the Dodgers acquiring Skubal seems far-fetched — as it always did.
Nevertheless, the rumors have gained traction. This could be in part to Tigers president of baseball operations Scott Harris, who said there were no untouchables on the roster.
When speaking to reporters, Harris wouldn’t explicitly say Skubal is staying in Detroit.
“It’s just really hard to answer the question,” Harris said on Day 1 of the Winter Meetings, “and I’ll tell you why: One, we don’t speculate on any players on our roster in trade talks. It’s just not productive, and it’s unfair to players on other teams.
“Two, I’ve been pretty clear since I’ve been here: I don’t believe in untouchables at any level, anyone in our organization. It’s not a commentary on Tarik specifically, [but] sort of a blanket team-building approach. I can’t do my job without listening. I can’t do my job without exploring anything that may or may not have legs. Some are going to be very likely moves and some are going to be extremely unlikely, but you can’t actually fully vet those opportunities unless you are willing to listen. …
“I don’t know if that’s helpful for you guys, but I figured I’d give you at least some logic behind why we’re taking this approach.”
What Would a Dodgers Return Package Look Like For Tarik Skubal?
The Dodgers would no doubt have to give up much for the Tigers to part ways with their franchise player. MLB insider Jim Bowden’s trade proposal has the Dodgers sending Tyler Glasnow, Emmet Sheehan, and top prospect Zyhir Hope.
All in all, the Dodgers trading for Skubal remains a rumor and not a reality. The World Series champions shouldn’t be ruled out of anything this winter, but most MLB insiders are not convinced LA will land the Tigers ace.
Photo Credit: Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
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