Tarik Skubal pushes back on notion that the Dodgers are ruining baseball
USA Today
Last updated: August 4, 2026
Pitcher Tarik Skubal has publicly stated he has no sympathy for fans complaining about the Los Angeles Dodgers' player acquisition strategies, specifically their trades. Skubal, a two-time Cy Young Award winner, believes these moves are not detrimental to the sport.
- The Los Angeles Dodgers have been active in the trade market, acquiring significant talent, including Skubal himself. Skubal, a prominent pitcher, has directly addressed criticisms leveled against the Dodgers' approach to building their team. He argues that his team's actions are not inherently damaging to baseball. His statements indicate a defense of the Dodgers' strategy in acquiring talent through trades and other means. Skubal's perspective suggests that a competitive team making strategic moves is a natural part of the sport's ecosystem. He implies that the focus should be on the quality of play and competition rather than the perceived impact of specific team-building tactics. The Dodgers' willingness to invest and acquire top talent is a key element Skubal is defending against negative fan reactions.