TORONTO — The Toronto Blue Jays are considering a trade to acquire Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal as they seek to reinforce an injury-depleted starting rotation. In a proposed deal, the Blue Jays would send shortstop JoJo Parker and left-handed pitcher Johnny King to the Tigers in exchange for Skubal.
Skubal, a two-time Cy Young Award winner, is under contract for $32 million this season. The Blue Jays assembled a strong pitching rotation during the offseason, but injuries have prevented it from staying healthy. José Berríos underwent Tommy John surgery and remains under a seven-year, $131 million contract through 2028. Dylan Cease was recently placed on the injured list with a hamstring strain. Max Scherzer and Shane Bieber are rehabilitating from injuries and have made minor league rehab starts.
JoJo Parker, 19, is the Blue Jays' No. 2 prospect and ranked No. 38 overall by MLB, described as a bat-first shortstop who was drafted just one year ago. Johnny King, the team’s No. 4 prospect and MLB’s No. 84 overall, has pitched 27.2 innings at High-A, allowing 18 hits while striking out 39 batters.
The Blue Jays possess the assets necessary to complete a trade for Skubal and could consider extending his contract beyond the current season. According to assessments from rival executives, the teams most likely to acquire Skubal include the Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Yankees, Toronto Blue Jays, and San Diego Padres.
The Blue Jays are attempting to improve their record and are considering adding pitchers to their rotation due to injuries. This potential move comes as the team navigates a season disrupted by multiple setbacks in its pitching staff.