MLB free agency opens with Skubal as the top target
Free agency begins Monday, with Tarik Skubal expected to sign a record-breaking contract before the December lockout.
By Bianca Herrera ·
Tarik Skubal enters the free agent market today as the top player in the 2026 class. The Detroit Tigers pitcher is expected to sign a new contract before the December 1 lockout. Analysts predict his deal will set a new record for a starting pitcher, with estimates ranging from well over $300 million to potentially exceeding $400 million.
The Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Mets are the primary contenders for Skubal. Both teams possess the highest payrolls in baseball. The Chicago Cubs also want the pitcher but are skeptical they can match the price. The San Diego Padres need a rotation anchor and view Skubal as an ideal fit. ESPN reporter Jeff Passan noted that Skubal will set a new record, with the only question being how large the contract will be.
Alden Gonzalez suggested that Skubal would prefer to return to the Dodgers. He cited the pitcher's enjoyment of the team culture and his close relationship with Blake Snell. However, the final decision will depend on financial terms. The Dodgers must determine if they are willing to match the Mets or other bidders while considering the threat of a salary cap.
Other free agents are also generating interest. Nick Martinez and Michael King are expected to sign short-term deals before the lockout. Martinez gained attention during the World Series for his performance and clubhouse presence. Seiya Suzuki holds strong leverage as a right-handed power hitter in a market that lacks such players. Freddy Peralta and Michael King are particularly attractive to teams because they cannot receive qualifying offers.
Team executives are cautious about making major trades until the new collective bargaining agreement is settled. The Tampa Bay Rays are deciding whether to keep ace Drew Rasmussen or trade him. His $20 million salary would increase their payroll significantly. The Houston Astros are evaluating shortstop Jeremy Pena, while the Los Angeles Angels plan to clean up their roster after trading Jose Soriano. The Milwaukee Brewers may listen to offers for closer Trevor Megill despite their recent World Series title.
The upcoming lockout is expected to accelerate signing activity. In 2021, teams committed $1.9 billion to free agents in the final days of November. Nine players signed nine-figure contracts during that period. Jorge Castillo expects a similar rush of activity this year. Players are likely to sign deals quickly to avoid uncertainty about the future financial system.
The Dodgers are focusing on restocking their bullpen and potentially re-signing Alex Vesia and Evan Phillips. They have depth in their starting rotation and may look to trade Teoscar Hernandez. The New York Yankees and Mets are also preparing for changes. The Mets are viewed as the more aggressive buyer and are considered the favorite to sign Skubal. The Yankees need to address their bullpen and infield positions, with David Bednar leaving as a free agent.
