Why Rays make sense as a Tarik Skubal landing spot with Shohei Ohtani link

The Tampa Bay Rays are sitting atop the American League East over the New York Yankees, but they could still use a bit more help to solidify their status atop the division.

While they could look to trade for more offensive firepower, adding an elite starting pitcher like Tarik Skubal would make a lot of sense.

MLB insider Robert Murray of Fansided.com highlighted the Rays as a "longshot" team for the Detroit Tigers' Cy Young-winning ace. But, with the Rays' Shohei Ohtani history, there is some reason to believe Tampa Bay could be a good fit for Skubal.

Why Rays could trade for Tarik Skubal with Shohei Ohtani link

"The Rays, meanwhile, have a history of trying for big fish when opportunities arise," Murray writes. "They tried for Shohei Ohtani in 2023 and had serious discussions with the Los Angeles Angels, according to The Athletic."

Tampa Bay's history of going big-game hunting should open the door for the Rays to swing a big deal for Skubal this season.

While it might be unlikely, it's not something that can be ruled out just yet. Adding Skubal to the rotation would give the Rays one of the best pitching staffs in MLB.

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Even coming off surgery for loose bodies in his elbow, Skubal is someone worth trusting. He's the back-to-back AL Cy Young winner, and this season he had a 2.70 ERA before landing on the injured list.

Pairing Skubal with Drew Rasmussen, Shane McClanahan, and Nick Martinez would form a fantastic starting rotation. This is the kind of rotation that can go head-to-head with the Yankees' elite rotation.

While it might cost a lot, the Rays have shown a willingness to spend big on a superstar player when available. While they've yet to land such a talent, and this trade is far from a guarantee, Skubal to the Rays is something fans should keep an eye on.

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