What happened: Tarik Skubal reached free agency after Milwaukee closed out Los Angeles 4-0 in the NLCS. He made his final start of the season in the 6-4 elimination loss. The offseason market now centers on the left-hander.

Why it matters: Frontline starters of his age rarely reach the open market without an extension. A deal near the projected $276.2M range would reset payroll plans across pitching-needy clubs. Los Angeles faces a rotation hole if he signs elsewhere.

What to watch: Formal offseason business opens after the World Series. Watch where his bidding starts once offers can be exchanged.