There’s an unmissable presence in the Dodgers’ clubhouse, and it’s connected to Tarik Skubal.
As the Dodgers aim for their third consecutive World Series title this October, it’s common knowledge that starting pitcher Tarik Skubal is in line for a significant contract this offseason.
Or at least, you might think he knows, but maybe not.
Teammate Max Muncy mentioned that Skubal hasn’t brought up his upcoming free agency with anyone on the team.
“I’ve never heard him mention one thing about free agency,” Muncy shared after a team practice on Tuesday. “His main focus has been on pitching here, competing with us, and pushing through this playoff run.”
Muncy described Skubal’s attitude in the clubhouse as something unique and “pretty special.”
“He’s looking at a big payday coming up, that’s for sure,” Muncy stated. “Yet, he hasn’t even brought it up once. We’ve had plenty of guys who were on the verge of free agency talk about it, and that’s perfectly normal.”
What stands out is that since being traded to the Dodgers before the MLB trade deadline, Skubal has been dedicated to the team’s goals.
He has pitched in 10 games for the Dodgers this season, achieving a solid record of 5-2 with a 2.36 ERA, along with 70 strikeouts.
This Friday, the Dodgers announced that Skubal would be their starting pitcher for Game 1 of the NLDS against the Braves on Saturday.
Beyond his contributions on the field, he’s also made a positive impact in the clubhouse.
Teammate Tyler Glasnow appeared on “Dodgers Territory” and shared how Skubal and Blake Snell have formed a strong friendship, calling it “love at first sight.”
“He’s been focused on what we’ve got going on this year. I think that speaks to him, but that also speaks to the culture we’ve got in here,” Muncy commented. “Whatever happens in the future is going to happen. But right now, we can control our present.”
