Boras Sees Skubal Deal Coming Before Expected MLB Lockout
A potentially historic free agent deal runs up against economic uncertainty.
Ace pitcher Tarik Skubal is expected to sign a free-agent contract before the end of the month, potentially for a record-breaking amount, although the team and financial structure have yet to be determined. Skubal's agent, Scott Boras, stated that a deal for the starting pitcher is expected within three weeks. The current MLB-players association agreement ends on December 1, after which a management lockout is anticipated, halting all roster transactions.
Given the compressed MLB player market due to labor uncertainty, a contract for Skubal could surpass the 12-year, $325 million deal signed by Yoshinobu Yamamoto with the Dodgers three years ago, which remains the free-agent record for a pitcher.
Boras highlighted that, over a 30- or 40-year period, there might be fewer than 10 aces capable of winning multiple Cy Young Awards. Skubal has already won two Cy Young Awards, and his free agency is closely tied to the possibility of competing for several more. However, the impact of Skubal's potential contract, or any other free agent's deal, on MLB's future economic policies is unclear, as owners strive to establish a rigid salary cap and floor, along with numerous other industry-wide modifications.
Despite this, Boras emphasized that players remain united in their strong opposition to a cap-based system.
Boras maintained his offseason habit of making humorous remarks about his free-agent clients. Regarding Skubal, he remarked, “It’s very clear that there is a dominant and strong Sku-bull market.” He also joked, “Teams have filled their tanks and they’re clearly ready for the Skubal dive,” and, “Teams are not devoid of pursuing their championship fortunes and they understand there’s only one Tarik card.”
The Dodgers acquired Skubal during the August trade deadline and are strongly considered to retain him on a long-term contract. However, the introduction of a salary cap may result in significant economic consequences for the rest of the Dodgers' roster. Other teams actively seeking Skubal include the Mets, the Padres, and the Blue Jays.
Boras praised San Diego's aggressive approach over recent years, which he anticipates will continue under the new club owners José E. Feliciano and Kwanza Jones. “Your goal is you want success, and you want to raise your franchise values. And you do that with audience, attendance, media ratings, and when you’re in the playoff modality,” Boras stated.
Notably, Skubal is also part of the MLBPA's executive subcommittee and assumes a crucial leadership role in the ongoing labor negotiations.
Written by urgent.news from Front Office Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
