The Red Sox need reinforcements on the mound. Taking Garrett Hook and signing him long-term was a great idea…and ideally he could use some help in the rotation.
There are rumors that the Red Sox could potentially pursue the pitcher via trade rather than as a free agent.
As always, take Jim Bowden with a grain of salt, but he had this to say about the Red Sox's push to start pitching:
“They also have the financial freedom to acquire one of their top starters as a free agent, although trading for a top-tier starter is their preferred route.” pic.twitter.com/F41lP0eTY0
– Tyler Milliken (@tylermilliken_) November 5, 2025
Obviously, Joe Ryan's name will be circulating. The Twins would likely trade him, and we know the Red Sox were interested in the Minnesota pitcher for the 2025 season.
What about Tarik Skubal?
We obviously don't know if the Tigers will trade him. But if they do, it will be because a club with a large, established system (like the Red Sox) will give the Tigers the moon for a year's control of the world's best pitcher.
On MLB Network, without linking the two issues, Jon Heyman said he wouldn't be surprised if Jarren Duran plays in Detroit in 2026 … before adding that Skubal's name will be discussed at the general manager's meeting next week.
“I'll make a prediction here. Jarren Durant, I think, would fit in great with the Detroit Tigers… Don't be surprised if Jarren Durant wears the old English D on opening day.”
– @jonmorosi on @MLBNetwork pic.twitter.com/9yWXcKOdLP
– Gordo (@BOSSportsGordo) November 5, 2025
Buster Olney then said that the Red Sox, who notably have a good surplus of outfielders (which the Tigers need) in their organization, are well positioned to try to pry Skubal away from Michigan.
The Mets and Mariners are also worth keeping an eye on.
Expensive @Buster_ESPN,
Please don't tease me with “Red Sox” and Tarik Skubal in the same sentence. pic.twitter.com/dyA7kgErth
– Tyler Milliken (@tylermilliken_) November 5, 2025
Skubal, represented by Scott Boras, should logically become a free agent in a year. But if the club sees its window open even wider in 2026 with a top pitcher on its roster, the pitcher could leave Detroit.
At the end of the day, we know he won't get what he wants from the Tigers. This is clearer than ever.
I don't know if the Red Sox will pursue him – in my opinion, if he goes, the Mets should be the favorites – this winter. But this is a club that I refuse to take out of participation right now… if there is any participation at all.
To be continued.
This content was created using artificial intelligence.
