The New York Mets had a difficult 2025 season after investing $760 million in high-profile signings, falling far short of all the expectations generated at the beginning of the campaign. With this scenario serving as a learning experience, the Queens franchise has made it clear that it will spare no resources, with the priority of adding depth to the roster and finding that pitcher to lead the rotation.
In this context, Tarik Skubal has become the ideal target and a coveted piece in the MLB market. The American League Cy Young Award winner, the Detroit Tigers star showed dominance and consistency on the mound, with an ERA of 2.21, WHIP of 0.89 and 241 strikeouts in 31 starts. According to Zach Buckley of Bleacher Report, the left-hander should be a priority for the Mets:
The trade price will be high, but that’s the cost of acquiring elite talent. The Mets can afford it, and they need it; an established ace could be the missing piece to complete their championship puzzle
Could Tarik Skubal be heading to the New York Mets? Financial opportunities and challenges in Queens
Skubal’s future in Detroit is in doubt due to a contractual disagreement, as the Tigers offered him four years for $80 million, well below his market value, which opens the door for the Mets to step in with a compelling proposal, either in cash or combined with trade currency with prospects such as Jonah Tong and Brandon Sproat.
President of operations, David Stearns, seems to be willing to take advantage of the situation and according to reports:
The Mets have the budget and the prospects to get the deal doneSkubal would fit perfectly as the missing piece for the team
Are the Tigers willing to let Tarik Skubal go?
The Detroit Tigers’ management faces a critical decision of whether to sell their ace early or strengthen the team offensively, and according to close reports, the most viable option is to sign Kyle Schwarber, a three-time All-Star who last season drove in 132 runs and hit 56 home runs.Jim Bowden shared his thoughts on keeping Skubal or gambling on Kyle Schwarber:
Schwarber not only brings power, but also leadership in the locker room. His presence could be key to backing Skubal and keeping the Tigers in contention
The Mets seem willing to spend again in this market with an eye on the World Series and competing at the highest level, learning from the mistakes of 2025 so that they do not pay the price next year.
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