{
  "id": 16676745,
  "title": "Dodgers Get Nightmare Tarik Skubal Prediction Before MLB Free Agency",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/26/dodgers-get-nightmare-tarik-skubal-prediction-before-mlb-free-agency",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-26T23:26:30.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Newsweek",
    "slug": "newsweek",
    "url": "https://www.newsweek.com/sports/mlb/dodgers-get-nightmare-tarik-skubal-prediction-before-mlb-free-agency-12621797"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Los Angeles Dodgers ace Tarik Skubal emerges as the league's top pending free agent this season. It's widely anticipated that his impending free agency will attract considerable interest from teams across Major League Baseball. However, given the Dodgers' reputation as dedicated spenders aiming for World Series success in 2027, they are expected to make every effort to retain Skubal. Nevertheless, a recent prediction by Kerry Miller for Bleacher Report introduces a worrisome scenario for the Dodgers. According to Miller, the San Diego Padres are set to sign Skubal in free agency this offseason. This prediction would undoubtedly spell trouble for the Dodgers, as the Padres represent their fiercest rivals and pose the most significant threat among the National League West teams. Bringing Skubal on board would elevate the Padres' standing, making them an even stronger competitor. With the Padres' pressing need for pitching reinforcement, it's entirely plausible for them to make a substantial bid for Skubal during the offseason. His exceptional talent as a pitcher could propel the Padres to new heights, potentially solidifying their position as contenders. As such, the Padres are a team to monitor closely should Skubal enter the free agent market. Despite the Dodgers' significant investment in Skubal this season, having acquired him from the Detroit Tigers just before the trade deadline, his performance with the team this season was noteworthy. Over 10 games, Skubal compiled a 5-2 record and a 2.61 ERA.",
  "summary": "The Los Angeles Dodgers are being predicted to lose star pitcher Tarik Skubal to the San Diego Padres this offseason.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}