Dodgers Acquire Tarik Skubal in Trade with Tigers

The Los Angeles Dodgers have initiated a deal to strengthen their already robust pitching rotation. Although the agreement with the Detroit Tigers has not been officially confirmed, multiple reports suggest the Dodgers will trade three prospects to acquire two-time Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal.

In exchange for Skubal, the Dodgers are expected to send the Tigers a promising package consisting of Triple-A right-hander River Ryan, Double-A outfielder Zyhir Hope, and Class A right-hander Brady Smith. Despite earlier reports, right-hander Emmet Sheehan remains with the Dodgers, confirmed by his presence in the clubhouse and remarks from manager Dave Roberts that he is scheduled to start on Sunday.

Ryan, who has a hamstring injury, is said to be ready for the big leagues. However, the Dodgers managed to secure Skubal without sacrificing top prospects like outfielder Josue De Paula or pitcher Christian Zazueta.

“Wild. Absolutely wild. I can’t believe that,” Dodgers player Alex Vesia commented, reacting to the trade news which he learned from his mother. “My mom texted me. She was like, ‘I think you’ve got a new teammate.'”

Tarik Skubal, a left-handed pitcher, enhances the Dodgers’ rotation, offering backup if other key pitchers are unavailable later in the season. He joins the formidable group led by Yoshinobu Yamamoto.

Skubal’s performance history is impressive, having achieved back-to-back American League Cy Young Awards. With a 2.39 ERA in 2024 and a 2.21 ERA in 2025, his track record includes postseason success with a 2.04 ERA and 0.73 WHIP over six starts. This season, Skubal is 7-5 with a 2.79 ERA in 16 games, returning swiftly after elbow surgery.

The Dodgers will cover the remaining $9 million of Skubal’s salary for this season. As Skubal approaches free agency, his agent, Scott Boras, plans to pursue a record-breaking contract for the pitcher, potentially reaching $400 million.