Overview
- As of early November, reporting shows Tarik Skubal remains the top free agent target with the Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Mets viewed as the frontrunners and Jon Heyman naming the Mets the favorite.
- Analysts expect a record‑setting deal for the two‑time Cy Young winner with MLB Trade Rumors modeling a possible nine‑year, $425 million contract that would top existing pitcher guarantees.
- The San Diego Padres have surfaced as a credible dark‑horse suitor after an ownership change and are weighing a rotation overhaul that could include spending at the top of the market.
- The Chicago Cubs have signaled they will not aggressively chase Skubal while Dodgers president Andrew Friedman said the club will continue talks with Scott Boras, Skubal’s agent.
- Labor urgency and contract rules are shaping team calculations because the Dec. 1 collective bargaining deadline is compressing deals and Skubal is ineligible for qualifying‑offer draft compensation due to a midseason trade.