The New York Yankees could become a backup option for pitcher Tarik Skubal in the upcoming free agency period, according to MLB insider Kiley McDaniel. While the Yankees are rarely out of the conversation when it comes to high-profile players, Skubal’s preferred destinations appear to be elsewhere this offseason.
McDaniel shared that the Yankees are not seen as a top-tier landing spot for Skubal but could become his “fallback” choice if other teams do not meet his contract expectations. The New York Mets and Los Angeles Dodgers are currently viewed as more prominent contenders for Skubal’s services, although both face uncertainties. The Mets may only offer a short-term deal with a record-high average annual value (AAV), while the Dodgers are dealing with questions surrounding their ownership group.
Skubal, who is expected to seek a lucrative contract, might find the Yankees a realistic landing spot if his top options fail to materialize. A return to the Detroit Tigers, his current team, remains a possibility, but sources indicate there could be tensions between Skubal and the Tigers’ front office, potentially pushing him toward New York instead.
The Yankees' appeal as a fallback is partly due to their consistent presence in free agency talks, often linked to the biggest names regardless of financial or roster challenges. Other teams such as the Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, and San Diego Padres are also expected to join the bidding for starting pitching help.
Despite not being at the front of the pack, the Yankees have maintained their reputation as a viable landing spot for players like Skubal, whose market this offseason could become more complex as the offseason unfolds. McDaniel’s insights suggest that while the Yankees may not be Skubal’s first choice, the possibility of him joining the Bronx Bombers remains tangible.
The situation remains fluid, with Skubal’s final decision likely depending on how contract negotiations develop with the Mets, Dodgers, and other interested clubs. The Yankees have yet to release an official statement regarding their interest in Skubal.
According to Yahoo Sports.
