MLB insider claims Tigers ace could be on his way out as he steps up injury rehab

Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal is once again in the trade spotlight as speculation about his future intensifies.

Skubal has been rehabbing after undergoing elbow surgery to remove loose bodies. He completed a bullpen session on Thursday as part of his recovery process.

Skubal has been one of Detroit’s most valuable assets over the past few seasons, drawing interest from several teams.

The Tampa Bay Rays and New York Mets are reportedly among the teams that could pursue Skubal if the Tigers decide to entertain trade offers. Jon Heyman reported on Thursday that the buzz around Skubal is increasing.

“Tarik Skubal trade chances are rising,” he tweeted. “Tigers have lost 14 of 16 and are in last and 5 games out in WC race. 2. Tigers have 5 starters on IL. 3. Skubal is progressing since elbow scope. 4. Tigers chances to extend him are nil.”

The Mets have the capital to make a move for Skubal, and adding him to the lineup will strengthen their rotation for the postseason.

However, getting Skubal won’t be easy; the Mets will have to give up some of their top prospects. A.J. Ewing, Carson Benge, Jonah Tong, and Jack Wenninger could be some of the names Detroit might be interested in.

During an appearance on “Foul Territory,” insider Ken Rosenthal said the Tampa Bay Rays might go big for Skubal.

“It’s not going to be easy for them necessarily from a financial standpoint, but with new ownership, the hope of a new ballpark, this seemingly would be the season to [make a big trade]…it’s a little early to get into that. But, if he does become available, then yeah. I would expect [the Rays] would play,” Rosenthal said.

The Detroit Tigers sit fifth in the American League Central with a 20-32 record. They have dropped 15 of their last 17 games, including a 7-4 loss to the Baltimore Orioles on Friday.

Tigers manager shares update on Tarik Skubal’s rehab

While Detroit Tigers manager A.J. Hinch did not give a definitive timeline for Tarik Skubal’s return from elbow surgery, he said the ace took a “great step” towards recovery.

“His velocity was as high as it’s been since his throwing started,” A.J. Hinch told reporters on Thursday. “He sat down and came back and did like a simulated second inning. That’s encouraging, and it’s full stuff.”

Skubal has made seven starts and recorded a 2.70 ERA and 0.95 WHIP in 43.1 innings. He’s traveled with the team for the series against the Orioles.