Phillies linked to $32M 2-time Cy Young winner to form elite rotation with Zack Wheeler, Aaron Nola

Tarik Skubal is expected to be one of the biggest names at this trade deadline for any contending team across Major League Baseball. Coming off an injury, the expectation is that the Detroit Tigers could ultimately move him if they fall out of contention.

Skubal is a dominant southpaw who would immediately improve any rotation. The only question is whether the Tigers remain in playoff contention long enough to hold onto him.

“Don't look now, but just when everyone is preparing to watch Tarik Skubal's rehab assignment and start composing trade proposals, the Detroit Tigers have just won 4 consecutive games. They are still just 26-38, but in the weak AL, are somehow just 5 games out of a wild-card berth,” USA Today’s Bob Nightengale posted.

Skubal is coming off an elbow injury but has moved quickly through his recovery process. The nanoscope advancement used in his surgery appears to have played a significant role.

“Tarik Skubal underwent elbow surgery May 6. One month and one day later, he threw five scoreless innings on 54 pitches and punched out six at High-A. Maybe Skubal is just that guy, but if nanoscope technology halves the return time from bone-chip injuries, what an advancement,” ESPN’s Jeff Passan posted.

With Skubal showing no signs of slowing down during his rehab, multiple teams are expected to pursue him. One team ESPN insider Buster Olney believes could be in the mix is the Philadelphia Phillies.

“If they fall out [of the American League race] then you would imagine teams like the Dodgers, the Padres, the Phillies, will be having conversations with the Tigers,” Olney said.

The Phillies’ rotation of Aaron Nola, Cristopher Sánchez, and Zack Wheeler is already one of the strongest in baseball. Adding Skubal to that mix would arguably give Philadelphia the best rotation in the sport.

Skubal is currently on a $32 million deal, which makes him significantly more affordable than he will be in future seasons. The Phillies know their championship window is now, and adding Skubal would significantly strengthen their chances. A two-time Cy Young winner, he would be a massive acquisition for Philadelphia.