Brewers explore trade options for Tigers' Tarik Skubal and Padres' Mason Miller

Milwaukee is reportedly checking on the availability of Detroit Tigers right-hander Tarik Skubal and San Diego Padres reliever Mason Miller as part of a potential push to bolster its roster before the August 3 trade deadline. The club, which has reached the postseason in eight of the past nine seasons, is looking to address a rotation hole opened by Brandon Woodruff’s season-ending shoulder surgery. Skubal, a two-time American League Cy Young winner, could pair with prospect Jacob Misiorowski to form a strong front end of the staff. Miller, who posted a 0.86 ERA and a 48.8% strikeout rate this season, would add depth to Milwaukee’s bullpen and is under contract for three more seasons.

The Brewers’ front office, described as more aggressive than in recent years, may be willing to part with prospects from a farm system ranked as the best in the majors by Baseball America. Potential trade pieces could include infielders such as Jesús Made, Luis Peña, and outfielders like Jett Williams, among others. Financial considerations are also a factor; Skubal is due $32 million this year, and the Brewers are currently $136 million in payroll.

Detroit faces a decision on whether to retain Skubal, who is under contract through 2027, or trade him for prospects, while the Padres could consider moving Miller to restock a farm system that Baseball America rates as the league’s weakest. Both clubs remain within a few games of a playoff spot, adding uncertainty to any potential deals. The Brewers are also monitoring other pitchers, including Reid Detmers, Joe Ryan, Jeff Hoffman, Kevin Gausman and Trevor Rogers, as alternatives before the deadline.