What happened: The Athletic updated its 2026 trade deadline rankings following the World Series, elevating Freddy Peralta over Tarik Skubal for the top overall spot. Skubal arrived in August as the deadline's consensus marquee addition. Two months of postseason play reshuffled the evaluation.

Why it matters: Peralta solidified his postseason standing after becoming ALCS MVP on the way to the World Series. Both pitchers now enter the upcoming 2027 offseason cycle among baseball's most coveted rotation arms. Their deadline performances have reset valuation benchmarks ahead of potential long-term contract negotiations.

What to watch: Both aces shift focus to the winter market as clubs prepare for the 2027 season. Peralta's postseason stock and Skubal's contract status will headline pitching discussions across baseball.