Dodgers Catcher's Team USA Connection Could Boost Blockbuster Skubal Trade

Tarik Skubal's strong World Baseball Classic performance alongside Dodgers catcher Will Smith may give LA an edge in trade talks.

Mar. 9, 2026 at 5:41pm

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Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Will Smith and Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal recently played together for Team USA at the World Baseball Classic, where Skubal struck out five and allowed just two hits in three innings. As an impending free agent, Skubal has been the subject of intense trade rumors this offseason, with the Dodgers emerging as a top suitor. The strong on-field connection between Smith and Skubal could give the Dodgers a significant advantage in trade negotiations for the two-time AL Cy Young Award winner.

Why it matters

The Dodgers have the best farm system in baseball and could view Skubal and Smith's recent playing time together as a major reason to be aggressive in a trade for the left-hander this summer. Skubal's impending free agency also means the Tigers will be looking to maximize their return in any deal involving the ace pitcher.

The details

In a potential trade idea, the Dodgers could send outfield prospect Zyhir Hope (No. 2), right-hander River Ryan (No. 6), and third baseman Chase Harlan (No. 17) to the Tigers in exchange for Skubal. The Dodgers have the depth in their farm system to afford parting with multiple top prospects in a blockbuster deal.

  • Skubal and Smith played together for Team USA at the World Baseball Classic in early March 2026.
  • Skubal is set to become a free agent after the 2026 season, making him a prime trade target this offseason.

The players

Tarik Skubal

A two-time American League Cy Young Award winner and impending free agent who has been the subject of intense trade rumors this offseason.

Will Smith

The starting catcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers who recently played alongside Skubal on Team USA at the World Baseball Classic.

Zyhir Hope

A top-2 outfield prospect in the Dodgers' farm system who could be included in a trade package for Skubal.

River Ryan

A top-6 right-handed pitching prospect in the Dodgers' farm system who could be included in a trade package for Skubal.

Chase Harlan

A top-17 third base prospect in the Dodgers' farm system who could be included in a trade package for Skubal.

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What they’re saying

“The two spent a lot of time together during Team USA's camp in early March. It takes more than a good relationship with the Dodgers catcher to make a deal happen, but unlike most teams, Los Angeles has money to play with and a strong farm system.”

— Mark Powell, FanSided Writer

What’s next

The Dodgers and Tigers will likely continue trade discussions surrounding Tarik Skubal in the coming months, with the Dodgers' deep farm system and Skubal's connection to catcher Will Smith potentially giving them an advantage in negotiations.

The takeaway

The Dodgers' ability to leverage their top-ranked farm system and the existing relationship between Tarik Skubal and Will Smith could make them the frontrunners to land the Tigers' ace in a blockbuster trade this offseason, as Los Angeles looks to bolster their rotation and solidify their status as World Series favorites.