What happened: Yahoo Sports says rival executives believe the Detroit Tigers are seeking a prospect-heavy return for Tarik Skubal. Luis Arraez, Luke Weaver, Robbie Ray, Michael Wacha, Mason Miller, Tyler Stephenson and Foster Griffin are among the other players shaping the market.
Why it matters: Skubal, the two-time reigning Cy Young winner, can reach free agency after this season. Detroit must weigh an immediate return against keeping its ace for a fading postseason chase, while several clubs decide whether to move expiring contracts or controllable pitching.
By the numbers: Arraez has produced 3.1 WAR and a 136 adjusted OPS with four homers. Since June 1, Weaver has allowed two hits and no earned runs in 14 appearances with a 19-3 strikeout-to-walk margin. Ray posted a 3.38 first-half ERA, Wacha owns a 1.19 WHIP, and Griffin has 10 wins with a 2.77 ERA.
What to watch: Offers for Skubal will define the final stretch before Monday's 6 p.m. ET cutoff. Decisions involving Miller and the pending free agents could determine how quickly the broader market moves.