The Toronto Blue Jays have entered the sweepstakes for two-time Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal, joining at least six other teams in pursuit of the top free-agent pitcher on the market. The Blue Jays are expected to meet with Skubal next week, according to reports, as they look to bolster a starting rotation that struggled in the 2026 season.
Dodgers maintain early edge despite competition
The Los Angeles Dodgers, who acquired Skubal at the trade deadline, have signaled their intent to re-sign him. General manager Brandon Gomes stated Tuesday that the organization enjoyed a positive partnership with Skubal, who posted a 2.61 ERA in 10 starts after joining the team. Skubal also limited postseason opponents to three runs across two series, including a 1.59 ERA in the NLCS.
Multiple teams register interest in Skubal
Beyond Toronto, reports indicate the New York Mets, San Diego Padres, and Dodgers are among the franchises planning meetings with Skubal. The Mets have also expressed interest in Dodgers reliever Alex Vesia, who has drawn attention from more than half the league. Vesia, a left-handed specialist, posted a 2.66 ERA over 328 innings with the Dodgers and allowed just four runs in 22.2 postseason innings across six seasons.
Market dynamics and contract considerations
Skubal’s free agency comes amid uncertainty surrounding the next Collective Bargaining Agreement, with executives and agents questioning whether spending will match the flurry seen in 2021. Skubal’s agent, Scott Boras, has not discussed contract specifics but has suggested creative deal structures could address teams’ concerns over potential salary cap implications.
The Dodgers’ early meetings with Skubal reflect their desire to retain the pitcher, though the presence of multiple bidders complicates their path to a reunion. Toronto’s pursuit, if successful, would pair Skubal with Dylan Cease to form a formidable rotation duo.