This Tarik Skubal contract prediction is the only one that gives Cubs a seat at the table

Writer Jordan Campbell of Cubbies Crib argues that the Chicago Cubs can only realistically compete for ace pitcher Tarik Skubal by offering an unprecedented, short-term contract with a record average annual value. Because the Cubs are unlikely to match massive total guarantees offered by competitors like the Los Angeles Dodgers or New York Mets, Campbell suggests president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer must alter his standard approach to stay competitive in the sweepstakes.

To make a compelling pitch to agent Scott Boras, Campbell proposes a hypothetical four-year, $250 million permanent contract structure boasting a record-shattering $62.5 million AAV. The projection also envisions a fifth-year player option with a buyout. However, Campbell notes that even with such high-AAV creativity, the Cubs may still struggle to land Skubal against teams offering longer commitments.