The Los Angeles Dodgers didn’t have to trade for Tarik Skubal at this past trade deadline, but they made the move anyway, acquiring the two-time Cy Young Award winner on a relatively favorable deal considering he could potentially be a rental. Now, this offseason is a pivotal one for Skubal, as several teams are expected to pursue the star left-hander.
Skubal impressed during his time with the Dodgers, but he likely would have made an impact with any team that acquired him. The southpaw appeared to enjoy his brief stint in LA, with reports indicating that he was fond of his time with the organization.
“The sense I get from people that he has talked to, is that he would love to be a Los Angeles Dodger. He loved his time in LA. I think it’s a perfect marriage in LA,” MLB insider Jim Bowden said.
When the Dodgers failed to reach the World Series for the first time in three years, some began wondering whether it marked the end of the dynasty they had built. However, Skubal made it clear that he doesn’t share that outlook.
“I don’t feel that at all,” Skubal said. “It’s hard to win the World Series, and this group has done it the last two seasons. Obviously, not this year, but … I think that this group is incredibly talented. And the preparation and the work ethic that this group has — I don’t buy into that narrative.”
On Wednesday, however, a concerning report emerged about Skubal’s chances of returning to Los Angeles. Sports Illustrated’s Noah Camras reported that the Dodgers are unlikely to offer the massive long-term contract Skubal could be seeking, while the left-hander reportedly isn’t interested in the alternative LA may be willing to offer.
“The Dodgers are reportedly unlikely to offer Tarik Skubal a long-term contract, instead offering a short-term, high-AAV deal. However, ESPN’s Jeff Passan said Skubal “has no interest in a shorter-term, higher-dollar deal.” You can do the math,” Camras posted.
This is certainly not what Dodgers fans want to hear, especially those who have become accustomed to seeing the organization make major moves to land superstar talent. Skubal is expected to command one of the largest contracts ever given to a pitcher, so accepting a shorter-term deal would likely require a compelling reason, such as prioritizing a chance to compete for championships.
The southpaw is meeting with interested organizations as free agency continues. With the Dodgers seemingly unwilling to meet his preferred contract terms, a breakup between the two sides appears increasingly possible.
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