Dodgers rotation uncertainty keeps Tarik Skubal trade in play, says insider

The Los Angeles Dodgers may already possess one of baseball’s deepest rosters, but Ken Rosenthal believes their rotation uncertainty makes a pursuit of Tarik Skubal impossible to dismiss.With the MLB trade deadline approaching, Rosenthal pointed to the health of Shohei Ohtani and several other Dodgers pitchers as the biggest factor shaping the front office’s plans.“So much depends on how they review the health of their rotation,” Rosenthal said.“Dave Roberts said that Shohei Ohtani experienced discomfort in his knee following his last bullpen session on Wednesday.

That led to the cancellation of his bullpen session today.”Ohtani is still expected to pitch again this season, while Blake Snell and Tyler Glasnow are also working toward returns.The Dodgers could eventually enter October with more than enough starting pitching.Counting on every injured arm to return healthy, however, could derail the teams lofty goal of winning its third World Series in a row.That is where Skubal becomes difficult to overlook.“They know one way or another, greater payroll restrictions are coming in the next CBA,” Rosenthal said.

“They cannot simply ignore the possibility of adding Tarik Skubal.” California's top news, sports and entertainment delivered to your inbox every day.Please provide a valid email.

By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.Never miss a story Skubal would represent much more than insurance.

The Detroit Tigers much more than insurance left-hander has established himself as one of the sport’s premier starters, combining swing-and-miss stuff with the command required to lead a postseason rotation.The Dodgers also possess the prospect depth to make a serious offer.Rosenthal noted that Los Angeles has several highly regarded outfield prospects and could potentially include a controllable major-league pitcher such as Emmet Sheehan in negotiations.Detroit would dema...