MLB trade rumors: Dodgers eyeing Tarik Skubal in bold move as Tigers predicted to chase Alex Bregman again

Tarik Skubal is once again in big trade talks as the Los Angeles Dodgers look for one more star pitcher this offseason. These talks started right after the 2025 season ended, and this week, reports said the Dodgers are now making a strong push.

On Tuesday, Bob Nightengale of USA Today reported that the Detroit Tigers have been listening to offers for the two-time AL Cy Young winner.The Dodgers already made news earlier this week when they signed Edwin Diaz to a $69 million deal. Now they are working on another huge move. Nightengale wrote that during the winter meetings in Nashville, the Tigers were “intrigued” by the group of young players the Dodgers offered.

This pushed the talks forward faster than many expected.

Tarik Skubal talks grow between Los Angeles Dodgers and Detroit Tigers

Tarik Skubal has been one of the best pitchers in MLB for two straight seasons. In 2024, he won his first Cy Young award with 228 strikeouts, 35 walks, and a 2.39 ERA. In 2025, he was even stronger with a 2.21 ERA, 241 strikeouts, and only 33 walks. He won his second Cy Young award in November 2025 because of these numbers.Talks between the Los Angeles Dodgers and Detroit Tigers began when the winter meetings opened on Monday in Nashville.

Bob Nightengale wrote that the Tigers “surprised teams by engaging in serious talks” and noted that the Dodgers’ offer of top prospects made Detroit think harder about a trade.

He also said the talks “triggered movement” across the league as other teams watched closely. The Dodgers want a rotation that can help them chase a rare three-peat in 2026. They dealt with many injuries last year, so they want a star who can lead big games.

Many insiders think Tarik Skubal would be moved before December, when most elite free-agent pitchers sign new contracts. As the Detroit Tigers hunt for more power in their lineup, Alex Bregman is another top name this winter.He opted out of his deal with the Boston Red Sox last month after signing a three-year, $120 million contract last offseason. He walked away from $80 million when he chose free agency in early November 2025.On Sunday, Bob Nightengale reported that the Tigers are still chasing Alex Bregman. But he also predicted that Bregman will likely return to Boston, writing, “Bregman returns to Boston, but won’t get anywhere near the $40 million annual salary he left behind.”The Tigers met his agents in Chicago last week, but no deal is done yet. Detroit wants a star hitter, while Boston wants to bring him back. The coming days will show which team moves first.Also Read: MLB Trade Rumors: Alex Bregman Race Puts Bo Bichette In Play As Blue Jays Eye Tatsuya Imai