The Los Angeles Dodgers trading Roki Sasaki to the Detroit Tigers for Tarik Skubal is not tied to any confirmed talks, but the idea has gained attention this offseason. The scenario reflects two teams with different priorities. Los Angeles is built to compete for titles now, while Detroit is still shaping a roster for the future.If a deal like this were completed, both pitching staffs would change immediately. The Dodgers would add one of the league’s most reliable starters, and the Tigers would receive a younger pitcher who could anchor their rotation for years. It is a classic exchange of present value for long-term control.(Disclaimer: The information and analysis presented in this article are based on current speculations. While the details are sourced from credible insights, it’s important to note that these are not confirmed moves or official statements. Readers are encouraged to take this analysis with a grain of salt and stay tuned for official updates as the offseason unfolds.)
What a Sasaki-for-Skubal trade could look like
Most projections follow a similar structure.Los Angeles Dodgers receive: • LHP Tarik Skubal (29, entering his final pre-free-agency season in 2026).Detroit Tigers receive: • RHP Roki Sasaki (24, signed in 2025 with multiple years of team control). • One or two high-level prospects, likely close to the majors.Since Skubal is approaching free agency and Detroit is not yet a clear contender, the Tigers would likely demand players who can contribute soon. Sasaki fits that requirement because he is already progressing toward a full major-league role.
Why the Los Angeles Dodgers might make the move
Strengthening an already deep rotation
The Los Angeles Dodgers project strong depth with Blake Snell, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Sasaki, and additional options such as Bobby Miller, Gavin Stone, and Michael Grove. Adding Skubal, a two-time Cy Young winner with a sub-2.00 ERA across recent seasons, would further stabilize the group.
| Pitcher | Age (2026) | Recent ERA (last 2-3 years) | Notes |
| Tarik Skubal | 29 | ~2.10-2.30 ERA range | Two-time AL Cy Young, elite strikeout pitcher. |
| Blake Snell | 33 | ~2.50-2.90 ERA range | Former Cy Young winner, high-K, high-walk profile. |
| Yoshinobu Yamamoto | 27 | ~3.00-3.30 ERA range | Workhorse with mid-90s fastball and strong secondary stuff. |
| Roki Sasaki (pre-trade) | 24 | Limited MLB innings; strong minor-league K-rates | High-upside young arm, still developing. |
A rotation led by Skubal, Snell, and Yamamoto would give Los Angeles several postseason-caliber starters even after trading Sasaki.
Taking on a short-term cost
Tarik Skubal (Image via Getty)
Tarik Skubal is projected to earn around $32 million through arbitration before becoming a free agent after the 2026 season. For the Los Angeles Dodgers, that is a manageable one-year commitment if it improves their chances of winning.
Why Detroit could consider the deal
Turning present value into future stability
Tarik Skubal enters his age-29 season and could command a contract exceeding $300 million if his performance continues. For a team still building toward contention, that level of commitment carries risk.Detroit would be exchanging: • A 29-year-old Cy Young winner nearing free agencyfor • A 24-year-old starter with several years of control.Roki Sasaki’s minor-league results and brief MLB appearances point to strong strikeout ability and upper-90s velocity, though he has yet to prove himself across a full season.
Financial flexibility and prospect depth
Detroit Tigers’ reported asking price suggests the club wants multiple premium assets. A package centered on Sasaki would help rebuild organizational depth, remove a possible $30 million-plus arbitration salary, and align the roster with a later competitive window.
Benefits and risks for each team
Los Angeles Dodgers
Pros: • Add a proven frontline starter. • Avoid a long-term contract commitment. • Maintain rotation depth.Cons: • Lose a young pitcher with long-term upside. • Take on a large arbitration salary. • Risk losing Skubal after one season.
Detroit Tigers
Pros: • Gain a younger starter with team control. • Avoid a costly arbitration year and future contract. • Add additional prospects.Cons: • Trade one of the league’s top pitchers. • Depend on Sasaki’s development and health. • Possibly extend the rebuild timeline.
Tarik Skubal vs Roki Sasaki: Age, control, and salary comparison
| Player | Age (2026) | Years of control remaining | Notes |
| Tarik Skubal | 29 | 1 year (2026 season) | Arbitration-eligible; free agent afterward. |
| Roki Sasaki | 24 | 5-6 years of team control | Signed with long-term control; possible no-trade protection. |
| Player | 2025 salary (est) | Notes |
| Tarik Skubal | $19-32 million (arbitration) | Likely near the upper range if arbitration is won. |
| Roki Sasaki | Low-seven-figure salary plus bonus | Team-friendly structure for an acquiring club. |
The age gap explains the logic behind the proposal. Detroit would prioritize long-term value, while Los Angeles would focus on immediate results.
Who benefits more?
Short term: The Dodgers would likely benefit first. A rotation featuring Skubal, Snell, and Yamamoto would raise their chances of another title.Long term: Detroit could come out ahead if Sasaki develops into a frontline starter while remaining cost-controlled through his prime.Also read: MLB trade rumors: New York Yankees potentially land $5 million Arizona Diamondbacks in a blockbuster deal to support Trent Grisham ahead of deadlineOverall: The result would depend on performance and health. A championship would justify the Dodgers’ decision, while Sasaki reaching ace level would make the trade a key step in Detroit’s rebuild. Both teams could meet their goals, but on different timelines.
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