The Los Angeles Dodgers are once again sitting pretty atop the National League West, a familiar sight for baseball fans. While they trail the Atlanta Braves in overall standings, there’s no doubt that the 2026 Dodgers are prime contenders for the World Series crown.
Yet, in a recurring theme for the Dodgers, their starting rotation is experiencing some turbulence. As the 2026 MLB trade deadline looms, don’t be surprised if they make a move to bolster their pitching staff.
Enter Jim Bowden of The Athletic, who has floated an intriguing trade scenario. Bowden suggests that the Dodgers could potentially land Cy Young ace Tarik Skubal from the Detroit Tigers by parting with just two players-a move that would undoubtedly shake up the MLB landscape.
Bowden’s proposal involves the Dodgers offering either Justin Wrobleski or Emmet Sheehan from their major-league roster, coupled with one of their top outfield prospects like Zyhir Hope, Josue De Paula, or Eduardo Quintero. While Bowden doesn’t pin down a single trade option, he presents six viable combinations that could seal the deal.
Tarik Skubal, boasting a 2.70 ERA this season, is currently on the injured list, recovering from elbow surgery. Despite this, his value remains high, and acquiring him won’t come cheap. The Dodgers, however, seem well-equipped to make a compelling offer.
In Bowden’s vision, the Dodgers would part with either Wrobleski, who sports a 3.07 ERA, or Sheehan, with a 4.70 ERA. Both pitchers are in their mid-20s, making them attractive options for the Tigers.
The wildcard in this trade scenario is the outfield prospect the Dodgers would include. Zyhir Hope, at 21 years old, is posting an impressive .810 OPS at Double-A.
Josue De Paula, also 21, is putting up an even more formidable .899 OPS at the same level. Meanwhile, Eduardo Quintero, though a bit younger at 20, has a .721 OPS at High-A.
Between Hope and De Paula, the Tigers would likely find a more enticing return.
For the Tigers, who are in need of long-term outfield solutions and additional pitching depth should they part with Skubal, this trade concept is highly appealing. It’s a deal the Dodgers can comfortably afford, and one the Tigers might seriously entertain if they decide to move Skubal this season.
As the trade deadline approaches, keep an eye on this potential blockbuster. It could redefine the Dodgers’ pitching rotation and significantly impact both teams’ futures.