Tarik Skubal Declines To Comment On Free Agency

The Los Angeles Dodgers made the expected splash at this year’s trade deadline by acquiring Tarik Skubal from the Detroit Tigers in exchange for a prospect package comprised of Zyhir Hope, River Ryan and Brady Smith.

What was perceived to be adding onto an embarrassment of riches eventually became a necessity as injuries prevented Shohei Ohtani from pitching again after a start on July 3. Meanwhile, there also was some risk assumed with Skubal being on track to become a free agent this winter.

The Dodgers hoped another World Series title would come before that point, but their season ended Thursday night as the Milwaukee Brewers finished off a sweep in the National League Championship Series.

Tarik Skubal deflects about free agency

One of the questions Skubal faced while speaking with reporters in the clubhouse after Game 4 was about his impending free agency

“I’m really not going to comment on my future,” the left-hander answered.

Skubal was effusive about his time with the Dodgers, however, noting, “I just think the group of guys, the clubhouse, the culture they have here is real. I was honored to be a part of it.”

The 29-year-old had previously raved on multiple instances about his new teammates being so welcoming, and Dodgers manager Dave Roberts likewise commended Skubal for immersing himself with the group.

The reigning two-time American League Cy Young Award winner doesn’t figure to have any shortage of suitors in free agency. That’s fueled initial speculation Skubal’s contract could reach upwards of $500 million on a long-term deal, particularly since he is represented by mega agent Scott Boras.

While the Dodgers presumably will have some interest in re-signing Skubal, it’s not clear how willing they may be to participate in any sort of bidding war. Particularly with a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) needing to be in place for the start of the 2027 season.

MLB team owners remain firmly in support of implementing a salary cap, but the Players Association (MLBPA) has maintained they will not agree to that drastic change with the sport’s economics. Regardless, there figures to at minimum be more punitive damages for high-spending teams, and that could impact the Dodgers’ ability — or willingness — to pursue Skubal.