The Detroit Tigers have not lived up to expectations and will likely ship off a few players before the August 2 trade deadline. With no one off limits, speculation has formed around 25-year-old starting pitcher Tarik Skubal. In his third season, the lefty has compiled a 3.67 ERA in 20 starts, with 113 strikeouts in 112 2/3 innings. Every contending team would love a chance to acquire the young starter under control through 2026. Here are the clubs that make the most sense to strike a blockbuster deal with Detroit.
Tarik Skubal Trade
Texas Rangers
After reportedly missing out on Luis Castillo, the Texas Rangers could be a suitor for Skubal. Their playoff-ready offense is held back by a subpar rotation, motivating them to strike a deadline deal for pitching. With his brother Jace Jung already in the Tigers’ system, Rangers prospect Josh Jung could headline the return to Detroit. If catcher Sam Huff is available, Texas seems to have the arsenal to strike a trade for the southpaw.
Rangers were strongly in mix for Luis Castillo before the Mariners acquired him from the Reds, sources tell @TheAthletic.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) July 30, 2022
Atlanta Braves
The Atlanta Braves could use another reliable starter to win back-to-back titles. Skubal fits into their young rotation led by Max Fried, and Atlanta has the capital to entice Detroit. With Ozzie Albies having a down year and plenty of surplus offense in case of his absence, a one-for-one major league swap is possible. Albies for Skubal would make the headlines, and the Tigers could use Albies’ bat in their lineup, even with his struggles.
New York Yankees
When a high-profile player becomes available for trade, the New York Yankees are always in the mix. A combination of top prospects, Jasson Dominguez and Oswald Peraza, could be very convincing. This trade would be a win-win, as the Yankees could add Skubal to an already good rotation. In contrast, Detroit would receive two highly touted minor leaguers, which could make an impact.
St. Louis Cardinals
The St. Louis Cardinals have been in rumors involving numerous stars this month, so it makes sense they’d be in talks for Skubal. Their strong roster led by Nolan Arenado and Paul Goldschmidt lacks starting pitching depth, with Jack Flaherty recently placed on the 60-day IL. Besides Adam Wainwright, there aren’t many recognizable starters. The Tigers are looking for current major league talent, so a one-for-one swap of Skubal and young third baseman Nolan Gorman would make sense.
With the Trade Deadline rapidly approaching, a Tarik Skubal trade would be very controversial among the Tigers’ fans. It could signal the start of another rebuild under a new regime. But, the impact felt by the players acquired for the new Detroit ace might eventually outweigh the heartbreak.
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Players Mentioned:
Tarik Skubal, Luis Castillo, Jace Jung, Josh Jung, Sam Huff, Max Fried, Ozzie Albies, Jasson Dominguez, Oswald Peraza, Nolan Arenado, Paul Goldschmidt, Jack Flaherty, Adam Wainwright, Nolan Gorman
