Skubal Reportedly Wants to Return to Dodgers

The Dodgers face a major decision over Tarik Skubal, whose future with the team remains uncertain. ESPN reporter Alden Gonzalez said his impression is that the two-time Cy Young Award winner would like to return to Los Angeles after spending about two and a half months there. Gonzalez said Skubal enjoyed the team’s culture and its focus on winning, and connected with fellow pitcher Blake Snell.

Keeping Skubal could require an enormous financial commitment. Two insiders have estimated that his eventual contract may come close to $500 million. The final figure could have consequences beyond Los Angeles, while the Dodgers have continued to show a willingness to spend heavily on top players.

The team’s offseason discussion also includes contingency plans in case Skubal leaves. One proposed alternative is adding another elite starter to an already talented rotation, while a separate trade concept would bring a young, high-profile offensive player into the infield. The proposal is framed as a way to add youth and improve a lineup that struggled to produce with runners in scoring position during the postseason.

Elsewhere, a former Dodgers infielder retired at age 28 and joined the Colorado Rockies’ coaching staff. His connection with Rockies general manager Josh Brynes, a former Dodgers executive, helped lead to the coaching opportunity that followed his playing career.