Dodgers and Orioles Eyeing Tigers' Tarik Skubal as Trade Deadline Nears
As the MLB trade deadline on July 30 swiftly approaches, the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Baltimore Orioles have set their sights on Detroit Tigers' left-handed pitcher, Tarik Skubal. Both teams, reportedly ready to offer prospect-rich trade packages, see Skubal as a valuable addition to strengthen their pitching rosters.
No Indication of Tigers' Willingness to Trade
Despite the interest, there is currently no indication that the Tigers are open to trading Skubal. The 27-year-old pitcher has been exemplary this season, leading all pitchers in ERA and WAR. With 140 strikeouts over 116 innings, Skubal's performance has been nothing short of stellar.
Since his return from a flexor injury last summer, Skubal has managed to pitch 196 1/3 innings, achieving a commendable 2.57 ERA and amassing 242 strikeouts. Such outstanding statistics make him an asset for any team, and it’s clear why the Dodgers and Orioles are keen.
Contractual Stability Until 2026
Adding to Skubal's allure is his contract situation. He is under team control until after the 2026 season, offering potential suitors a degree of stability in an otherwise often-volatile market. However, the Tigers may see this very stability as a reason to retain his services, especially given his recent performances.
Stability in Colorado: McMahon to Stay with Rockies
In a separate scenario, Colorado Rockies' third baseman Ryan McMahon will remain with his team through the trade deadline. Rockies GM Bill Schmidt has assured McMahon of his place on the team, ending any speculation about a possible trade.
McMahon, who is 29 years old, has been delivering solid numbers this season, slashing .273/.350/.447 with 14 home runs. His exceptional defense at third base bolsters his value, making him a key player for the Rockies moving forward.
"We had a good talk. Talked about it and we came to the conclusion that I’m going to stay a Rockie," McMahon shared in a recent interview, reflecting his commitment to the team.
Rockies' Struggles and McMahon's Commitment
The Rockies currently hold a 34-63 record and a minus-169 run differential, signaling a challenging season. Despite the team's struggles, McMahon’s dedication remains unwavering. His contract runs through 2027, offering a long-term structure around which the team can potentially rebuild.
The upcoming trade deadline promises to be an intriguing period, with major teams like the Dodgers and Orioles poised to make impactful moves. Whether the Tigers will entertain offers for Tarik Skubal remains to be seen, but for now, fans can only speculate on where the talented left-hander may end up. Concurrently, the Rockies’ decision to retain Ryan McMahon highlights their strategy of building continuity even during tough times.
As the deadline approaches, both fans and analysts will be closely monitoring these developments, eagerly awaiting the final decisions that could reshape team dynamics and tilt the balance of power in MLB.