For months now, experts have been desperately trying to tie the Atlanta Braves to a potential pursuit of Tarik Skubal at the trade deadline. Never mind the fact that a big move for a rental (and the likely price tag) is completely unlike Alex Anthopoulos to broker, or the fact that there is zero hope of an extension with Scott Boras around. Fans and analysts alike continued to push this potential connection, especially with the Braves sitting atop the NL East and in desperate need of rotation help.
However, it looks like such a move isn't as far-fetched as some of us thought. For a while, it looked like the Tigers wouldn't trade Skubal at all and could try to make one last playoff push with him. Unfortunately, Detroit has been slumping again recently, and the current rumors are that the Tigers are going to open the door to real trade discussions over Skubal ahead of next Monday's trade deadline.
The Athletic's MLB insider Ken Rosenthal shared his thoughts on the state of Skubal's trade market and what is likely to happen next. In that piece, he specifically named the Braves as one of five teams that are expected to try and acquire Skubal before the trade deadline passes.
The Braves are a team to watch in the Tarik Skubal sweepstakes, says @Ken_Rosenthal.
— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) July 28, 2026
"Alex Anthopoulos hasn't made a trade like this with the Braves, but he hasn't really had the chance to get this kind of difference-maker either." pic.twitter.com/SJFYV9cYod
Ken Rosenthal fully expects the Braves to be involved in Tarik Skubal's trade market
Now, it is still early, and there is no indication whatsoever that any Skubal trade is close. In fact, such a move would likely have to come right at the deadline itself. However, it is telling that Rosenthal specifically name-dropped the Braves. This doesn't sound like a writer just connecting a player to a team with a need. If Atlanta is getting specific mention here, there is more to it than that.
Getting a deal for Skubal to the finish line is likely to be extremely tough. Along with the Braves, Rosenthal mentioned the Brewers, Rays, Yankees, and Dodgers as other teams that are expected to make their case. All four of those teams are genuine playoff contenders, and all of them have the farm system depth to realistically pull off a trade for Skubal.
Ultimately, the Braves' chances for Skubal come down to exactly how reasonable the price tag for two months of the ace actually is. If Detroit is motivated to get a deal done and no teams lose their minds in a bidding way, Atlanta could put together a competitive trade offer for Skubal. If the Dodgers or Brewers are willing to empty the tank to get him, don't expect the Braves to play along.