Remember just a few seasons ago, Skubal was still the name ranked behind Verlander or Gerrit Cole in the debates. But from 2023 onwards, he’s become a nightmare to hit with: a top-three MLB ERA, a platinum strikeout rate of 200, and, most importantly, the lowest percentage of opponents reaching base since the peak of Jacob deGrom.
The pros have no doubt. ESPN calls him “the most complete left-hander of this generation.” And according to Buster Olney, $400 million is not a guess, that’s the price in the upcoming fierce race.
Brian Cashman and the borderline Yankees are used to “blockbuster” contracts. But after Gerrit Cole and the aging concerns of his ace, they crave a young, strong, cool successor—that’s Skubal.
Insiders say the Yankees have “red-flagged” his name since early 2024, and are willing to explore the salary cap if necessary. The Bronx owners don’t need to ask “should I spend?”, they just need to ask: “How much to spend to avoid being robbed by the Dodgers?”
If the Yankees are the blood, the Dodgers are the machine. They have been budgeting for this deal for a long time, after failing to keep Shohei Ohtani on the mound and making a deep postseason run in 2024. The Dodgers want Skubal as a long-term strategic weapon, alongside Bobby Miller, Walker Buehler and the young group that is emerging.
With the brand, the climate and the chance to win a championship this year, LA may be the most reasonable landing place for a Skubal who doesn’t care too much about standing out.
Steve Cohen – the billionaire who is willing to burn money to revive the Mets equipment – once missed Ohtani in Queens. With Skubal, they see a chance to “get even” with the Yankees. They need a superstar to lead the rotation, instead of relying on names past their prime like Senga or Carrasco.
But even if the 2026 season is not convincing enough (records, environment, coaching staff), Skubal will have a hard time accepting a team that is still struggling with its rebirth structure.
Tarik Skubal doesn’t say much. Throw, dominate, and let the word spread. But his transfer service is being described as “Ohtani Part 2”, with an impact that could determine a decade for three of MLB’s biggest empires.
And when the 2026 season finale rings out, don’t be surprised if the whole of America is watching where Skubal ends up – as if that’s where the 2027 World Series will be priced right now.