The Los Angeles Dodgers have made a significant trade with the Detroit Tigers to enhance their pitching rotation. This deal will bring two-time Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal to Los Angeles. Though the trade has not been officially announced by either team, several reports suggest the Dodgers have agreed to send the Tigers three prospects: River Ryan, a right-hander in Triple-A, Zyhir Hope, an outfielder in Double-A, and Brady Smith, a right-hander in Class A.
Initial speculations included right-hander Emmet Sheehan, but he was seen in the Dodgers’ clubhouse following their game against the Boston Red Sox. Manager Dave Roberts confirmed Sheehan is set to start the upcoming game. The shipment of Ryan, Hope, and Smith offers the Tigers three promising prospects. Despite Ryan being on the injured list for a hamstring issue, he is considered major-league ready.
Notably, the Dodgers retained top prospects such as Josue De Paula and Christian Zazueta, which keeps the integrity of their farm system intact. Dodgers pitcher Alex Vesia was stunned by the news, informed by his mother who texted about the new acquisition.
“My mom texted me. She was like, ‘I think you’ve got a new teammate.’ My mom knows before I do.”
By acquiring Skubal, the Dodgers reinforce their already robust pitching lineup, featuring ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Skubal provides depth, especially in anticipation of October where starters like Blake Snell or Tyler Glasnow might be unavailable.
Tarik Skubal, 29 years old, has been a dominant force in the American League in recent years. With a record of 18-4 and a 2.39 ERA in 2024 and 13-6 with a 2.21 ERA in 2025, he has consistently displayed his prowess. His 2026 season reflects a 7-5 record with a 2.79 ERA, even with time missed due to elbow surgery earlier in the year.
The innovative ‘NanoNeedle’ procedure facilitated a quicker return to play, enabling Skubal to contribute significantly to the Tigers with a 4-3 record and a 2.87 ERA post-surgery. However, the Tigers, struggling to contend, saw trading Skubal as a strategy with his free agency looming.
The Dodgers will assume Skubal’s remaining salary for the season, approximately $9 million. Although a potential lockout could affect contract details, Skubal’s agent, Scott Boras, is expected to pursue a record-breaking contract, possibly hitting the $400 million mark.