Los Angeles Dodgers could land Detroit’s ace by sacrificing Triple-A depth and outfield talent, securing a dominant rotation for an October run while the Detroit Tigers pivot toward rebuilding.
The Los Angeles Dodgers aren't afraid to spend money and make moves, and there's arguably no bigger move right now than to target Tarik Skubal.
The Detroit Tigers have been abysmal, and that's putting it lightly. At one point it seemed like Skubal wasn't going anywhere, but he's on a team that is 11 games back in the American League Central Division and is just 24-38 overall.
To no surprise, the Dodgers lead the National League West Division by a commanding six games. They're 17 games over .500, sitting at 39-22 but aren't ever satisfied.
Sure, Skubal is coming off an elbow injury, but this proposed trade by MLB Network is one the Dodgers would seemingly do in a heartbeat.
Dodgers Might Send Mike Sirota, River Ryan to Detroit for Skubal
"I went with two names that I think are in a very strong standing," Lance Brozdowski said. "Mike Sirota is a fascinating player that lifts the ball really well in the air. I think the Tigers are looking for close to major league talent in some capacity... River Ryan sits 97 [mph] with five pitches, he's down in Triple-A absolutely carving dudes."
Brozdowski added, "The Dodgers don't even need him because their rotation is so good. The thing for me, is no matter what the Tigers front office fields in terms of offers, they have to go back to the Dodgers and let them counter."
The analyst is a firm believer that come the deadline, this is all it would take for Detroit to say yes. Los Angeles has a ton of outfield depth, and obviously it makes sense to include a starting pitcher, one that is as close to ready as you'll find for Skubal in any of these proposed trades.
Dodgers Have No Reason To Hoard Prospects
Especially when it comes to a guy like Ryan, there's absolutely no reason to hold him hostage in Triple-A. Barring a few crazy injuries, he's not getting called up to the majors and it's only a matter of time before he finds a home somewhere in the MLB. If Skubal is on the table, then the Dodgers would get rid of Ryan in a heartbeat.
As for the outfield prospects, Josue De Paula seems to be off the table. Knowing this is just a rental for Skubal, it's OK if the Dodgers give up a quality prospect (Sirota is No. 41), but there's no reason to overpay, especially when the Tigers are likely getting of Skubal regardless.
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