Here’s what we’re watching closely around Major League Baseball today - and why it matters:
1. Tarik Skubal’s arbitration case could ripple across the league
All eyes are on the Tigers and their ace left-hander Tarik Skubal, as a decision is expected today following his arbitration hearing. And this isn’t just about one pitcher’s paycheck - it’s about setting the tone for elite arms heading into their final arbitration years.
Skubal, fresh off winning the AL Cy Young, is seeking $32 million. Detroit countered with $19 million.
That’s a significant $13 million gap, and the outcome could either push the ceiling higher for future top-tier starters or keep it stuck where it’s been for over a decade. For context, David Price still holds the record for a final-year arbitration salary at $19.75 million - and that was way back.
If the Tigers win this case, they’ll pay Skubal below that mark, which could give them a bit more financial flexibility - especially notable after they just added Framber Valdez to the rotation. But if Skubal wins, the Tigers will be paying top dollar for one of the game’s best arms, and rightly so. Either way, this decision won’t just affect Detroit’s books - it could shape how teams approach arbitration with frontline starters moving forward.
2. Padres bring in Miguel Andujar - but is more pitching help coming?
San Diego made a move to bolster its offense yesterday, agreeing to a $4 million deal with Miguel Andujar. The former Rookie of the Year runner-up is coming off his best season in years, slashing .318/.352/.470 with a 125 wRC+ across stints with Oakland and Cincinnati. He crushed lefties and held his own against right-handers, showing he can still be a weapon - especially in a platoon-heavy role.
Defensively, Andujar’s versatility is more theoretical than practical. He’s logged time at both corner infield and outfield spots, but he’s below average with the glove, which means he’ll likely see a good chunk of time at DH for the Padres.
The bigger question now: what’s next? With Andujar in the fold, A.J.
Preller may turn his attention to the rotation. The departure of Dylan Cease left a noticeable hole, and while the Padres have internal arms who could step up, adding a proven starter would go a long way in solidifying the staff.
Preller’s never been shy about making moves, so don’t be surprised if another domino falls soon.
3. Red Sox add IKF - but is that the final infield piece?
Boston added some defensive stability yesterday, agreeing to a deal with Isiah Kiner-Falefa. The veteran brings versatility and experience to an infield that’s been full of question marks, particularly at second and third base.
But let’s be clear - IKF isn’t here to light up the scoreboard. He’s coming off a .262/.297/.324 line in 459 plate appearances, good for a 75 wRC+.
That’s well below league average, and certainly not a one-for-one replacement for the kind of offensive production the Sox were hoping to find at third base.
So where does that leave them? Right now, Boston could be looking at a patchwork mix of Kiner-Falefa, Marcelo Mayer, David Hamilton, Nick Sogard, and Romy Gonzalez to cover second and third. There’s also Kristian Campbell and Ceddanne Rafaela in the mix, though the organization seems to prefer both in outfield roles.
The big unknown is whether this signing signals the end of Boston’s infield shopping - or just a stopgap. The Red Sox have been linked to names like Isaac Paredes, Nico Hoerner, and Matt Shaw on the trade market.
If they’re serious about contending, adding more offensive punch to the infield still feels like a priority. IKF raises the floor, but he doesn’t change the ceiling.
With arbitration decisions looming, rosters still in flux, and front offices weighing their next moves, today could be another pivotal day in shaping the 2026 season. Stay tuned.