MLB trade rumors: Yankees’ hopes of landing Tarik Skubal take major hit ahead of deadline

The biggest name being discussed ahead of the August 3 MLB trade deadline is Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal. While the New York Yankees have often been linked with the two-time AL Cy Young winner, the latest reports suggest they may not be the favorites to land him after all.According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, a person connected to the Yankees doubts that New York will be the team that acquires Skubal. Meanwhile, Bob Nightengale of USA Today reported that rival executives believe the Atlanta Braves are currently the most likely destination if Detroit decides to move its star pitcher.

Quick rumor table

Potential trade packages for Tarik Skubal

If Detroit moves Skubal, the return would likely be massive.The Tigers would almost certainly ask for multiple top prospects, young MLB-ready players and draft assets.

Skubal is not an ordinary trade target. He won the AL Cy Young Award in both 2024 and 2025 and remains one of baseball’s best pitchers when healthy. Because he is still under team control through the end of the 2026 season, Detroit has little reason to accept anything less than a franchise-changing package.

Which teams are interested in Tarik Skubal?

The Braves continue to generate the most buzz around the league. Rival executives cited by Nightengale view Atlanta as the strongest candidate if the Tigers decide to sell.

The Yankees have also been connected to Skubal for months, but their situation is complicated. New York already has several starting pitching options and may prefer to improve other areas of the roster. Other contenders mentioned in recent reports include the Phillies, Cubs, Padres, Rays and Red Sox.

What insiders are saying about the trade rumors

Jon Heyman’s latest report cooled expectations of a Yankees deal, saying a source familiar with the club’s thinking does not expect New York to land Skubal. Bob Nightengale went a step further, predicting that Skubal could be traded and identifying the Braves as the leading candidate based on feedback from rival executives. At the moment, there is no indication that a deal is close, but the speculation continues to grow as the deadline approaches.

Contract details and salary implications

Skubal is earning a record $32 million in 2026 after winning his arbitration case earlier this year. He is also expected to command one of the largest pitching contracts in baseball once he reaches free agency. That looming payday is one reason why Detroit faces a difficult decision. The Tigers risk losing him for nothing after the season if they cannot agree on a long-term extension.

How a trade could impact both teams

For Atlanta, adding Skubal would instantly strengthen a rotation that has dealt with inconsistency and injuries throughout the season. For the Yankees, the bigger need may be elsewhere. New York has struggled offensively at times and could prioritize help in the lineup or bullpen rather than paying a huge prospect price for another starter. Detroit, meanwhile, could use a Skubal trade to restock its farm system and build for the future if it decides to move into seller mode.

Latest update on the MLB trade rumors

Right now, Tarik Skubal remains with the Tigers and there is no confirmed trade agreement. However, the latest reporting points away from the Yankees and toward the Braves as the team generating the strongest trade buzz. With just over a month left until the deadline, Skubal is expected to remain one of the most closely watched names in baseball.

FAQs

Is Tarik Skubal getting traded?

No trade has happened yet, but several insiders believe there is a real possibility that Detroit could move him before the deadline.

Which team is most likely to acquire Tarik Skubal?

Based on the latest reports from Bob Nightengale, the Atlanta Braves are viewed by rival executives as the leading contender.

Why would the Tigers trade Tarik Skubal?

Skubal is approaching free agency and could command a huge contract. Trading him now could bring back valuable young talent.

When is the MLB trade deadline?

The 2026 MLB trade deadline is August 3.

What is Tarik Skubal’s current contract?

Skubal is playing on a one-year, $32 million arbitration salary for the 2026 season.