Detroit Tigers expected to trade Tarik Skubal ahead of MLB deadline

The Detroit Tigers are preparing to trade two-time Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal ahead of the 3 August MLB trade deadline following a slump that has derailed their play-off hopes.

The reigning American League pitching champion is expected to be moved rather than departing for a minimal compensatory draft pick in free agency.

Detroit currently sit four and a half games adrift of the final wild-card spot after a devastating 12-inning collapse against the Baltimore Orioles on Wednesday.

Dodgers and Brewers lead the chase

Several heavyweight franchises are closely monitoring the situation as the trade window draws to a close.

The Los Angeles Dodgers, Milwaukee Brewers and Tampa Bay Rays are viewed as the primary contenders to secure the sought-after left-hander.

These three organisations boast baseball’s strongest farm systems, providing the prospect capital required to facilitate a blockbuster deal.

Adding the dominant starter would cement the Rays as American League favourites or potentially grant the back-to-back champion Dodgers the sport’s premier arm.

Prospect capital driving up the price

Atlanta and the Chicago Cubs are also remaining in the mix for a transformative rotation upgrade.

However, the immense minor-league depth of the frontrunners threatens to price other interested parties out of the market.

The Brewers possess top-tier talent like highly rated shortstop Jesus Made, while the Dodgers can offer elite outfielders including Josue De Paula.

With starting pitching historically commanding a massive premium in the summer, Detroit’s front office is positioned to demand a franchise-altering return for their departing ace.