Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Tarik Skubal (29) looks at the fans after delivering his 1,000 strikeout against the Baltimore Orioles during the first inning at Comerica Park in Detroit on Wednesday, July 29, 2026. USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

The Dodgers don’t seem anxious to trade a big prospect package for Tarik Skubal, but they do remain interested in making sure baseball’s best pitcher doesn’t go to the Brewers, Braves, Phillies or any other main competitor.

The Dodgers play a great offense, but defense could ultimately lead them to make a winning bid for Skubal, who seems more likely to be traded with the Tigers struggling now.

Three execs with interested teams suggested they hadn’t heard from Detroit as of midday Thursday, but that could just be a negotiating strategy. There’s still time.

One rival exec suggested it would be malpractice for the Tigers to not trade Skubal since he’s a rental who, one, will not re-sign with Detroit and, two, would bring back a monster package for a rental.