Rays face challenge in potential Tarik Skubal trade with Tigers

The Tampa Bay Rays are reportedly pursuing Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal as the MLB trade deadline approaches. However, a key point of contention is the potential demand for top prospect Theo Gillen, which the Rays are reluctant to part with. Skubal, currently a back-to-back Cy Young winner with a 2.79 ERA this season, could significantly strengthen the Rays' rotation alongside Shane McClanahan, Drew Rasmussen, and Nick Martinez. While the Rays are eager to enhance their playoff chances, they may struggle to finalize a trade if the Tigers insist on including Gillen in any deal. The Los Angeles Dodgers and other teams are also interested in Skubal.

• 1:24 PMYahoo Sports — Rays have one major problem with a trade for Tigers' Tarik Skubal