The New York Mets could be preparing to make another major splash in MLB free agency, with two-time American League Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal emerging as a potential target. According to MLB insider Jon Heyman, the Mets are “probably the favorite” to land the Detroit Tigers ace, putting New York in an intriguing position as the offseason market begins to develop.

Adding Skubal would give the Mets one of baseball’s most dominant starting pitchers and potentially transform their rotation heading into the 2027 season.

Mets have urgency to upgrade starting rotation

ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA – SEPTEMBER 15: Tarik Skubal #29 of the Detroit Tigers examines his finger on the mound with teammates Jake Rogers #34, Andre Lipcius #27, Javier Baez #21 and Spencer Torkelson #20 during the seventh inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on September 15, 2023 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images)

Heyman believes New York has an advantage because of its need to improve after a disappointing 2026 season. The Mets are looking for a frontline starter who can anchor their rotation, and Skubal would immediately fill that role.

The left-hander is coming off another dominant campaign, posting a 2.72 ERA with 10.55 strikeouts per nine innings and a 1.53 walks-per-nine rate across 26 starts between Detroit and Los Angeles. He has now established himself as one of the most consistent pitchers in baseball, making him the premier starting pitcher available on the free-agent market. NBC Sports+1

New York also has the financial resources to pursue a massive contract. Owner Steve Cohen has already demonstrated a willingness to spend aggressively, most notably when the Mets signed Juan Soto to a 15-year, $765 million contract before the 2025 season.

Skubal could command a historic deal of his own. MLB.com notes that he has an opportunity to establish new records for both the largest guaranteed contract for a pitcher and the highest average annual salary. MLB.com+1

Dodgers and other contenders remain in the mix

Jul 11, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Tarik Skubal (29) throws a pitch against the Seattle Mariners in the fifth inning at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images

While Heyman currently favors the Mets, New York will have plenty of competition. The Los Angeles Dodgers are expected to pursue a reunion with Skubal after acquiring him from Detroit before the 2026 trade deadline.

However, the Dodgers could be hesitant to offer the type of long-term contract Skubal is expected to receive. Reports suggest Los Angeles may prefer a shorter deal with a higher annual salary rather than committing to another lengthy contract. Yahoo Sports+2

Other teams expected to have interest include the San Francisco Giants, Philadelphia Phillies, Toronto Blue Jays and San Diego Padres. Each could potentially enter the bidding if they believe Skubal is the missing piece needed to compete for a championship. MLB.com+1

For now, the Mets appear to have an early advantage in the sweepstakes. Heyman’s assessment does not mean a deal is imminent, but it puts New York firmly in the conversation for the biggest free-agent prize of the MLB offseason.

If Cohen is willing to make another historic financial commitment, the Mets could land the ace who transforms their rotation for years to come.