Tarik Skubal, the 29-year-old left-hander, is heading toward free agency following the conclusion of the World Series. Speculation regarding his future has intensified, with New York radio host Sal Licata suggesting during a recent broadcast that while the New York Mets remain a potential landing spot, the Los Angeles Angels could emerge as a major contender for his services, potentially with a $450 million offer. Licata made the comments in the Monday episode of The Sal Licata Show. Licata’s doubts about the cost were not new. Below his estimate, and a lockout was expected when the CBA expired on Dec, an ESPN survey of 27 insiders averaged eight years and $355 million.
Licata distinguished the potential pursuit of Skubal from the Mets’ recent acquisition of Juan Soto, who signed a 15-year, $765 million contract. Having previously expressed skepticism regarding whether a single ace could resolve broader roster deficiencies, Licata argued for a more balanced allocation of team resources rather than focusing solely on one high-priced arm. He framed the choice around appetite for a demanding market rather than money alone. 1 video, he argued that one ace would not fix a Mets roster with several holes and suggested spreading the money as the Yankees did after losing Soto. 15, which completed a sweep.
Skubal finished his season with a 5-2 record and a 2.61 ERA across 10 starts following his mid-season arrival from the Detroit Tigers.
The Los Angeles Dodgers had acquired him on August 2 in a trade involving prospects Zyhir Hope, River Ryan, and Brady Smith. His campaign concluded after the Dodgers were swept by the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Championship Series, with Milwaukee securing a 6-4 victory in Game 4 on October 15. He spoke at Dodger Stadium after Milwaukee’s 6-4 win in Game 4 on Thursday, Oct.
In the wake of the loss, Skubal offered little regarding his free agency intentions, noting he had been preparing for a potential Game 5 before the sweep. Meanwhile, fellow Cy Young winner Blake Snell has reportedly begun recruiting Skubal, according to reports from Sports Illustrated, indicating he has already made a pitch within the clubhouse.
Any significant bid from the Angels may hinge on ongoing changes at the ownership level. Kroenke Sports and Entertainment reached an agreement in September to purchase a controlling interest in the franchise from Arte Moreno at a $4 billion valuation, a transaction slated for completion in early 2027. At this time, there has been no official statement from the Mets, the Angels, or representatives for Skubal regarding his future.
