All eyes are on ace Tarik Skubal as MLB free agency gets underway ahead of the impending labor stoppage.
The current collective bargaining agreement expires on Dec. 1, meaning that after that, no players can sign until a new CBA is established. This could put Skubal on the fast track to a new contract, as many around the sport expect him to sign ahead of the lockout.
Where do things currently stand in Skubal's free agency? What's the latest? We have everything you need to know about the winter's No. 1 free agent in one place.
Most recent update on Skubal's status
Skubal is scheduled to meet with the New York Mets in California next week, a source confirmed to ESPN on Tuesday. While the Mets are an obvious possible landing spot for the two-time Cy Young Award winner, the other seemingly logical destination for Skubal is a return to the Los Angeles Dodgers, the team he was traded to from the Detroit Tigers at this year's deadline.
Latest news and analysis
Nov. 11: Passan's perfect move for top contenders: Skubal has no interest in a shorter-term, higher-dollar deal, which could disadvantage the Dodgers. The Mets could be in the strongest position to land Skubal this offseason.
Nov. 10: Mets to meet with prized ace Skubal next week: The Mets have a need for front-line starting pitching and an owner in Steve Cohen who's willing to spend.
Nov. 3: Rankings, contract projections for top 50 MLB free agents: Skubal comes in as the top-ranked free agent of this offseason -- but what will his contract look like?
Nov. 2: MLB offseason rumors and intel: What we're hearing as free agency begins: Outside of the Dodgers and Mets, the Cubs and San Diego Padres are other teams with a rotation need.
Oct. 30: Where does Skubal land? Best fits for top MLB free agents: The Chicago Cubs could be a perfect fit -- a big-market franchise in desperate need of an ace. The St. Louis Cardinals are another possible fit, as they've built a young roster with all kinds of payroll flexibility to make a big splash.
Oct. 29: What's next for Tarik Skubal, MLB's No. 1 free agent, after playoffs: Skubal was predictably coy about his pending free agency when asked about it after his team's final game, but has been effusive in his praise of the Dodgers. However, while the Dodgers might not need Skubal, the Mets -- who have the need, space and financial resources -- certainly do.
Oct. 2: 10 years, $500 million?!? MLB insiders predict Skubal's free agency: Skubal's average projected contract was eight years and $355 million, which is a $44.6 million average annual value (AAV) -- and the majority of panelists predict the deal will be done before Dec. 1.