Cubs Consider Pursuing Tarik Skubal in Offseason

The Chicago Cubs are exploring the possibility of signing Tarik Skubal as a free agent this offseason, even after the Los Angeles Dodgers acquired him during the trade deadline.

Patrick Mooney from The Athletic highlighted on a podcast that the Cubs are keeping their options open regarding the left-handed pitcher. Following a disappointing Wild Card Series exit, the team's president of baseball operations, Jed Hoyer, has prioritized improving the pitching staff.

Skubal, who had a successful 2026 season with a 12-7 record and a 2.72 ERA, has been a standout performer, winning the American League Cy Young Award in 2024 and 2025. Although the Cubs showed interest in him at the trade deadline, they did not finalize a deal. With multiple pitchers from their late-season rotation set to enter free agency, the Cubs are focusing on enhancing their pitching capabilities.