With the Chicago Cubs looking to make additions this offseason to boost their team, the one player who has been linked to the team in rumors is star pitcher Tarik Skubal. As rumors around the Cubs and Skubal continue, this MLB insider would speak on the potential of a partnership.
Speaking on CBS Sports, Bowden would be asked about Chicago's chances of landing Skubal, with the league insider saying that the expectation will be that the ball club will “make a run” at the 29-year-old.
“They absolutely do have the money, without a doubt,” Bowden said. “Will the Cubs make a run? We're hearing yes.”
Bowden would mention how the Cubs are far from the only team interested in the star free agent, saying that wherever he ends up, he will likely make the most money a pitcher has ever made in the history of the game.
“One thing that we do know, when it's all said and done, there will not be a pitcher in baseball that makes more money ever in the history of the game than Tarik Skubal,” Bowden continued.
More on the Cubs' link to Tarik Skubal
When it comes to the Cubs, starting pitching will be key to acquire this winter as five of their pitchers from last season will be heading into free agency.
Chicago will address the need, as MLB insider Ken Rosenthal said the team will be active and predicted they will “sign or acquire at least two starting pitchers,” briefly mentioning the chances around Skubal.
“I don't expect them to sign Skubal, but it's not as if they are looking in a market barren for the teams looking for offense,” Rosenthal said on “Foul Territory.”
Article Continues BelowIt's no secret that the Cubs need starting pitching…@Ken_Rosenthal believes they'll sign or acquire "at least two." pic.twitter.com/PXnJRmA3J7
— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) November 3, 2026
Skubal was traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers last season after close to seven years with the Detroit Tigers, as the two-time AL Cy Young Award winner recorded a 2.72 ERA with 186 strikeouts and a 12-7 record in 26 combined starts. It remains to be seen if Chicago will pursue Skubal and how they'll address starting pitching, as the team looks to improve after finishing with an 89-73 record in 2026.

