The Los Angeles Dodgers are looking to bring back Cy Young-winning starter this offseason, but a series of factors could hold them back from signing the southpaw.
Skubal joined the Dodgers from the Detroit Tigers at this past season’s trade deadline in exchange for three prospects, including Top 100 prospects Zyhir Hope and River Ryan, and he appeared 12 times throughout the remainder of the regular season and postseason for LA.
Through his final 10 starts of the regular season, Skubal posted a 2.61 ERA while striking out 70 batters through 62 innings for the Dodgers. He also made two postseason appearances for the club, allowing just three earned runs across 11 innings and striking out 14 batters.
What’s Holding the Dodgers Back From Signing Skubal?
The biggest factor in bringing Skubal, the best free agent on the market this offseason, is money. Predictions have Skubal earning anywhere between $350 million and $400 million with his next contract, which could be an issue for the Dodgers given the current state of MLB.
“But Skubal could command a $400 million contract, and the Dodgers don’t see themselves going to those lengths given the uncertainty of MLB’s economic situation moving forward, sources familiar with their thinking said,” ESPN’s Alden Gonzalez wrote. “The threat of a salary cap in 2028 — or, more realistically, 2029 or 2030 — has some Dodgers officials thinking that their only path to landing Skubal might be through a short-term, high-AAV deal, the type he’s highly unlikely to accept.
“Is there a chance owner Mark Walter, who’s facing a federal investigation over alleged self-dealing, approves a nine-figure deal for Skubal? That can never be counted out. But at this point, that does not seem to be on the table. At least not before a potential Dec. 1 lockout.”
Can the Dodgers Still Sign Skubal?
As seen in past years, it’s impossible to count the Dodgers out of a race for any free agent. Kyle Tucker wanted a long-term deal last offseason, but the Dodgers managed to get a deal across for four years and $240 million.
That’s not to say the Dodgers will be able to structure a similar contract with Skubal, but they’ve managed to convince the top free agents in the game in the past, and are sure to make an attempt to do so with Skubal once again, especially given his “ideal fit” with the team.
