MLB Trade Rumors: Red Sox “predicted” candidates for Kazuma Okamoto; Mets, Dodgers seen as “most logical” fits for Tarik Skubal

The Boston Red Sox continue to be on the lookout for infield pieces this offseason despite their strong interest in re-signing All-Star third baseman Alex Bregman.

Although the Red Sox traded for catcher-turned-first baseman Willson Contreras earlier this month, Boston has been linked with Japanese infielder Kazuma Okamoto, per a report in Japan.

However, MLB analyst Robbie Hyde is unsure how Okamoto will fit in Boston's infield.

"Yahoo Sports Japan lists the Red Sox as a “predicted” candidate for Kazuma Okamoto," Hyde wrote on X. "The article (translated to English) says he’s come to the US to be with Boras. After the Contreras trade & possible Bregman reunion, I’m not sure how much interest there is in Okamoto at 3B."

While Okamoto primarily plays at third base, the 29-year-old infielder is adept at covering first base, making him a potential backup to Wilson Contreras on Boston's roster.

Meanwhile, Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal remains a hot trade candidate this offseason after his second consecutive AL Cy Young win. The All-Star ace is headed into the final year of his contract and the Tigers could cash in on the two-time Cy Young winner.

The New York Mets have been linked with Skubal this offseason and the two-time defending World Series champions, the Los Angeles Dodgers are also among the "logical fits" for the coveted ace, per MLB insider Jon Heyman.

"The Mets are certainly interested. I would put them and the Dodgers as the most logical spots."

Tarik Skubal sends cryptic message to Detroit amid trade rumors

While Tarik Skubal's trade rumors have been in the news all offseason, an extension with the Tigers isn't out of question. The Tigers ace has been spotted at several venues watching teams from Detroit over the last few days.

Skubal was at a Detroit Lions, Detroit Red Wings, Michigan State basketball, and Detroit Pistons game over the last few days in the Motor City. The two-time Cy Young winner shared a carousel post to highlight his visits on Instagram, captioning it:

"Detroit vs. Everybody."

While the Tigers haven't tabled an extension offer for Skubal, any potential trade for the All-Star pitcher won't come cheap.

Edited by Chaitanya Prakash