The Detroit Tigers entered the 2026 season with high hopes after reaching the ALDS the previous year, but a rough May has put a damper on their playoff aspirations. Currently, the Tigers sit seven games under .500 and 4.5 games out of a wild-card spot. With expectations shifting, the team is likely to trade ace lefty Tarik Skubal, who will hit free agency after this season.

Tarik Skubal, 29, is a coveted player ahead of the August 3 MLB trade deadline. The two-time AL Cy Young winner has maintained a 2.79 ERA and a 3.1 bWAR in just 16 starts despite undergoing elbow surgery this season. His recent performance against Baltimore, where he allowed three earned runs over 6 2/3 innings while striking out six, could be his last in a Tigers uniform.

DraftKings Sportsbook has set odds on Skubal's next team:

• Dodgers: +115
• Brewers: +235
• Rays: +650
• Yankees: +800
• Cubs: +900
• Braves: +1000
• Stay with Tigers: +1500
• Phillies: +1800
• Any other team: +2000
• Mariners: +2500

The Los Angeles Dodgers are favored to acquire Skubal, aiming for a third consecutive championship. With a robust farm system and a pressing need for starting pitching, they could present a strong trade package. Other contenders, like the Milwaukee Brewers and New York Yankees, also show interest, while the Cubs and Braves seek rotation upgrades.

Although the Tigers might explore trade options, they could opt to retain Skubal, especially if they remain in the wild-card race. The decision will ultimately balance immediate returns against future potential, as Skubal's departure seems inevitable if the Tigers choose to rebuild.