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Owners ‘begging’ agent to meet Tarik Skuball, threatening Dodgers’ free agency pursuit
Scott Boras says interest in Tarik Skubal is already strong, with six teams due to meet the two-time Cy Young Award winner next week. That competition could make it harder for the Los Angeles Dodgers to re-sign the left-handed pitcher, whom they acquired at the trade deadline last season, and could drive up the price before a potential lockout.
Skubal, 30, was expected to attract a long-term deal worth at least $400 million, though a salary cap or tighter spending limits remain possible outcomes of labour negotiations. The Dodgers would like him back but are wary of adding another large, long-term contract and are thought to favour a shorter deal with a higher annual value. The Mets, Blue Jays and Padres are among the other interested clubs, though their appetite for another major commitment is uncertain.
In short
- Six teams are due to meet Skubal next week.
- His market could complicate the Dodgers’ bid to re-sign him.
- A deal of $400 million or more has been projected.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
The Dodgers have a strong case for pursuing Skubal: an elite, two-time Cy Young winner could materially strengthen their rotation, and a shorter deal with a higher annual salary might limit long-term risk while keeping the team competitive. With several clubs interested and labour rules potentially changing, acting now could also secure a rare talent before the market or spending conditions shift.
The case against
The Dodgers can reasonably hesitate over a commitment expected to exceed $400 million, particularly if it adds to an already substantial long-term payroll and leaves less flexibility for other roster needs. A shorter, high-value contract may still carry a large immediate cost, while uncertainty over a salary cap or tighter limits could make waiting for greater clarity the more prudent course.