Padres can’t let Tarik Skubal rumors distract from their biggest offseason need

The San Diego Padres need to add starting pitching, but they cannot be infatuated by Tarik Skubal.

By PJ Potter · Friars on Base

Published: Wednesday, 28 October 2026 at 6:45 PM

Key Things to Know

Writer PJ Potter argues the Padres should avoid overspending on free agent ace Tarik Skubal.
The article identifies starting pitching as San Diego's primary offseason roster priority.
Potter suggests re-signing Michael King or pursuing options like Shane Bieber instead.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Writer PJ Potter argues that the San Diego Padres should not get distracted by pursuit rumors surrounding free agent ace Tarik Skubal. Although starting pitching is the team's top offseason priority, Potter contends that San Diego should avoid overspending on top-tier pitching and instead focus on more realistic, cost-effective rotation targets.

Potter suggests that general manager A.J. Preller excels at developing undervalued talent, citing success stories such as Michael King and Nick Pivetta under pitching coach Ruben Niebla. The piece recommends re-signing King or targeting free agent alternatives like Shane Bieber, Tatsuya Imai, or Foster Griffin instead.

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Padres can’t let Tarik Skubal rumors distract from their biggest offseason need

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