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REPORT: Cubs “Badly Want” Tarik Skubal, Whose Timeline and Cost is Coming into Focus

Earlier this morning, news dropped that the Chicago Cubs have declined Colin Rea’s $7.5 million club option for 2027. And that matters for two reasons: (1) Suddenly, the Cubs have just a little bit more money to spend this offseason…

Bleacher Nation

Published: Monday, 2 November 2026 at 6:12 PM

Key Things to Know

ESPN reports that the Chicago Cubs "badly want" free agent pitcher Tarik Skubal to anchor their starting rotation.
Tarik Skubal's permanent free agent deal is projected to exceed $300 million and potentially top $400 million.
Insiders expect Skubal to sign with a team before an impending December 1 lockout begins.

The Story in 60 Seconds

According to ESPN's Jeff Passan, the Chicago Cubs "badly want" free agent ace Tarik Skubal as they seek to rebuild their starting rotation. However, Passan noted skepticism about whether the club will compete financially, as the 29-year-old left-hander is projected to command a contract well in excess of $300 million or potentially over $400 million.

Bleacher Nation highlights that Skubal is expected to sign before an impending December 1 lockout. While MLB insider Ken Rosenthal expressed doubt that Chicago will enter the bidding, the Cubs face extensive rotation vacancies after declining Colin Rea's $7.5 million club option and losing several veterans to free agency.

Read the full article on Bleacher Nation

REPORT: Cubs “Badly Want” Tarik Skubal, Whose Timeline and Cost is Coming into Focus

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