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Cubs ‘Badly Want’ Tarik Skubal, But There’s A Catch

The Chicago Cubs spent the entire 2026 MLB season trying to figure out their pitching rotation. Injuries were at the core of their problems, yes, but it still was difficult to bring it all together, even with multiple trades to…

By Billy Heyen · Heavy

Published: Monday, 2 November 2026 at 1:11 PM

Key Things to Know

The Chicago Cubs want free-agent pitcher Tarik Skubal but are skeptical about matching his expected contract price.
Skubal is projected to command a permanent free-agent deal exceeding $300 million or potentially $400 million.
The Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, and San Diego Padres are also viewed as potential suitors.

The Story in 60 Seconds

The Chicago Cubs reportedly "badly want" star left-handed pitcher Tarik Skubal in free agency, according to ESPN's Jeff Passan. However, the catch is that the club is skeptical about competing with the anticipated bidding war, as Skubal is projected to command a record-setting permanent contract well in excess of $300 million and potentially topping $400 million.

Skubal, who finished the 2026 campaign with the Los Angeles Dodgers after a midseason trade from the Detroit Tigers, is widely viewed as the premier free agent on the market. In addition to the Cubs, Passan noted that heavyweights including the Dodgers, New York Mets, and San Diego Padres are expected to pursue the ace.

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Cubs ‘Badly Want’ Tarik Skubal, But There’s A Catch

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