Skubal’s Free Agency Faces Lockout Questions

The Milwaukee Brewers swept the Dodgers in the NLCS, ending Los Angeles’ bid for a third consecutive World Series title and advancing to their first Fall Classic since 1982. Tarik Skubal, who joined the Dodgers from Detroit during the season, posted a 2.45 ERA and 14 strikeouts in two postseason starts; after the elimination, he focused on the loss and did not discuss his impending free agency. The two-time Cy Young winner is expected to be among the offseason’s most sought-after players, with reported contract projections ranging from about $355 million over eight years to as much as $500 million over 10. The Dodgers may hesitate to offer a long-term deal before an expected December MLB lockout, as labor negotiations could change payroll rules. The Mets are among the possible suitors, though a lengthy, expensive pitching contract could test their front office’s cautious approach; the Yankees and Padres have also been mentioned, while Skubal’s injury history and interest in New York remain uncertain.