Mets swinging for the fences in free agency before lockout with Tarik Skubal meeting

The New York Mets may not be waiting around to strike in free agency.

Jon Heyman of the New York Post reported that the Mets have a meeting scheduled with free-agent pitcher Tarik Skubal next week. Heyman further noted that the Mets are considered among the favorites to land Skubal.

A two-time AL Cy Young award winner, Skubal is easily the prize of free agency. Although he missed six weeks after surgery to remove loose bodies in his left elbow, Skubal posted a stellar 2.72 ERA and a 0.964 WHIP in his 158.2 innings between the Tigers and Dodgers, striking out 186 batters with 27 walks.

New York Mets need Tarik Skubal — but so do other contenders

The Mets potentially have the pieces for a solid rotation. Nolan McLean built off his potential as a consensus top-10 prospect entering the 2026 season to emerge as the Mets' top starter. Young pitchers Christian Scott and Zac Thornton showed potential as middle-of-the-rotation options. Jonah Tong showed flashes of his potential, while Sean Manaea and Kodai Senga remain under contract.

None of those players are likely to approach the same level as Skubal. He would instantly transform the Mets rotation, giving them the ace they need as they look to return to the postseason. Skubal could also pay off in the long run by helping develop the Mets' cadre of young arms.

The Mets will have competition for his services. The Dodgers and Padres are also slated to meet with Skubal next week. Although every team could use a pitcher of his caliber, the Mets offseason could hinge on landing the prize of free agency.