Trade Deadline Drama: Dodgers and Orioles Eye Tarik Skubal, Rockies Stand By Ryan McMahon
As the MLB trade deadline on July 30 swiftly approaches, teams are scrambling to finalize their rosters for the latter half of the season. Among the most desirable names being discussed in trade rumors is Detroit Tigers' left-handed pitcher, Tarik Skubal. Both the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Baltimore Orioles have expressed strong interest in acquiring the 27-year-old ace.
Skubal's Stellar Season
Skubal has been nothing short of exceptional this season, leading all pitchers in both ERA and WAR. His command on the mound has earned him 140 strikeouts over 116 innings, a testament to his dominance. Since his return from a flexor injury last summer, Skubal has been in top form, pitching 196 1/3 innings with a 2.57 ERA and 242 strikeouts.
The Dodgers and Orioles are reportedly willing to offer prospect-rich trade packages to secure Skubal's talents. However, there's no clear indication that the Tigers are open to trading their star pitcher. Skubal is under team control until after the 2026 season, making him a valuable asset for Detroit not just in the immediate future, but for years to come.
Potential Trade Packages
Given Skubal's impressive stats, it’s no surprise that the Dodgers and Orioles are aggressively pursuing him. The Dodgers, always in the hunt for top-tier talent, and the Orioles, who are looking to bolster their rotation, could significantly benefit from adding Skubal to their rosters. Yet, without an explicit indication from the Tigers that they are willing to part with him, these talks remain in the speculative phase.
Ryan McMahon Stays Put
In a contrasting scenario, Colorado Rockies third baseman Ryan McMahon will remain with his team through the trade deadline. Despite the Rockies' disappointing 34-63 record and a staggering minus-169 run differential, the organization has decided to retain McMahon's services. Rockies GM Bill Schmidt personally informed McMahon of this decision.
"We had a good talk. Talked about it and we came to the conclusion that I'm going to stay a Rockie," McMahon shared in a recent interview. The 29-year-old has been a bright spot for the Rockies this season, slashing .273/.350/.447 with 14 home runs and providing exceptional defense at third base. McMahon's contract runs through 2027, which aligns with the Rockies' apparent long-term plans for him.
While fans and analysts may be eager to see blockbuster trades shake up the league, the Tigers' stance on Skubal and the Rockies' commitment to McMahon suggest that some teams are looking beyond immediate gains to build sustainable success. As the deadline inches closer, all eyes will remain on potential moves and the impact they could have on the race to the postseason.