Cubs face painful Tarik Skubal free agency reality after Jeff Passan’s latest intel

Cubbies Crib writer Brandon Glick argues that the Chicago Cubs are unlikely to pursue elite starting pitcher Tarik Skubal in free agency. According to reporting from Jeff Passan, Skubal could seek a contract approaching $50 million per season, potentially reaching double Stephen Strasburg's record $245 million deal, with an agreement expected before the current Collective Bargaining Agreement expires on December 1.

Glick contends that the Cubs will not commit to such record-setting financial terms for a 30-year-old starter. Instead, the author suggests the franchise should address its rotation needs by targeting other free-agent options, citing potential targets such as Kevin Gausman, Freddy Peralta, Shane Bieber, and Sonny Gray.