yahoo
As the General Managers meetings kick off in Las Vegas, the market for free-agent starting pitcher Tarik Skubal is beginning to take shape. According to insider Jon Heyman of The New York Post, the New York Mets have emerged as the leading candidate to secure the prized arm this offseason.
"I do favor the Mets at this point," Heyman stated on MLB Network. "We are not exactly sure where the Dodgers are going to go. They are not in the desperation mode that the Mets are in to get better. I think the Mets are the favorite."
Monday marked the first day of the GM meetings, and already the sentiment suggests Skubal could end up with the Mets. Throughout the early weeks of the offseason, the Mets have been widely viewed as the industry favorite due to their need for starting pitching and their readiness to spend in free agency. Moreover, with Scott Boras representing Skubal, the Mets might be the most probable destination for a top-tier, high-dollar contract.
Key Analysis
The Dodgers are still expected to be in the mix, potentially attempting to lure Skubal with a shorter-term deal that carries a high average annual value. However, their capacity to compete with the Mets' offer will hinge on whether they are willing to propose terms that could be uncomfortable for Andrew Friedman and the front office. Skubal enjoyed his time with the Dodgers, and while that factor could influence his decision later, Los Angeles will need to present substantial financial offers to retain him. The Mets are not the only suitor, as Heyman noted that numerous teams are checking in and preparing their own bids. With such widespread interest, securing Skubal will be a challenging endeavor for the Dodgers.
Originally reported by yahoo.