Dodgers acquire Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal in trade

Los Angeles Dodgers completed a trade on Saturday night to acquire two-time Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal. The move was welcomed by players in the clubhouse as evidence of the organization’s ongoing commitment to field a championship-contending roster.

Miguel Rojas said the acquisition reflects the front office’s willingness to “put our bodies on the line” and to pursue more than a single championship. "We are always confident the guys in the front office are going to do whatever it takes to put us in the best position to win," he added.

Veteran outfielder Mookie Betts noted that the trade aligns with the team’s stated goal of winning, recalling his own signing in 2020 as part of that strategy. Freddie Freeman called the addition "pretty amazing" and said the front office “got the best player on the trade market.” Closer Edwin Díaz said the Dodgers “always do something to get better,” and veteran infielder Kiké Hernández expressed enthusiasm for the new pitcher.

The transaction, first reported by a sports columnist, was confirmed as players were leaving the stadium on Saturday night. Freeman said he learned of the trade from his wife while driving home, and Betts received the news via a phone notification.

Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman said the club’s culture of collective effort influences its aggressive roster moves. "When you walk in this clubhouse before the game, every guy is doing something to help us win a game that night. That level of commitment is rare," he said.

Skubal’s arrival adds depth to a rotation that has dealt with injuries to starters, and the Dodgers hope the left-hander will help the team pursue another World Series title.