Report: Dodgers Might Not Be Aggressive for Skubal Pre-Lockout

The Los Angeles Dodgers are reportedly unlikely to sign ace pitcher Tarik Skubal to a major extension before a potential lockout begins ahead of the December 1 deadline. According to ESPN's Alden Gonzalez, economic uncertainty regarding a potential salary cap in the next collective bargaining agreement makes a massive pre-lockout deal difficult to justify for Los Angeles. Skubal, who was acquired from the Detroit Tigers at the trade deadline, will be the top free agent on the market.

This potential hesitation could open the door for the New York Mets, who are seeking a frontline starter. Reporting from SNY's Chelsea Janes indicates Mets owner Steven Cohen is prepared to pay whatever it takes to sign the two-time Cy Young Award winner if he chooses to pursue him, though questions remain about whether Skubal desires to play in New York.