Dodgers' New Ace Tackles Wrigley: Skubal Makes L.A. Debut vs Cubs
The Los Angeles Dodgers have added another star to their lineup with the trade of Tarik Skubal, who will make his MLB debut in the second game of the series against the Chicago Cubs Tuesday night at Wrigley Field. This marks a significant upgrade for the team aiming to avoid a string of losses. Skubal's first start will come up against MVP candidate Pete Crow-Armstrong.
The Dodgers aim to stay ahead in the National League standings despite facing a season-high fifth straight loss threat. Los Angeles remains favored at -192, with Chicago underdog at +171 on the money line for tonight’s matchup. The over/under is set at 9 runs.
Dodgers Trade Skubal for an Upgrade
The trade of three prospects to acquire Skubal wasn’t without its fair share of doubters, but it was a well-considered move by the Dodgers organization. Other teams might have traded different players or focused on other roles, including adding Kevin Gausman and Clay Holmes to shore up their rotation.
Key changes for Skubal include pitching in interleague play for the first time since his rookie season. In 2025, he allowed three earned runs or fewer in eight of nine starts post-surgery but has yet to pitch at Wrigley. His last start against Chicago was a victory allowing one earned run over 7.2 innings.
Key Statistics and Expectations
The SportsLine Projection Model forecasts Skubal at 6.4 innings, 7.6 strikeouts, 5.2 hits allowed, and 2.6 earned runs tonight, with a projected Over/Under of 7.5 strikeouts against his new team.
Skubal’s elbow surgery might limit him initially, but the model suggests he could struggle a bit in his first innings with L.A. managing his workload carefully. Alex Bregman is about the only Cub with sustained success off Skubal at 7-for-15 with a double, triple, and homer. He faces an underwhelming Javier Assad tonight who has done well as a swingman but may return to the bullpen.
Dodgers Aim for Win
The Dodgers are favored to win in this matchup with Ohtani against Crow-Armstrong. The Cubs have significant upside though, especially from their potent lineup if they can get runs past Skubal. However, L.A. is primed to reach the three-run mark first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Tarik Skubal’s debut help the Dodgers avoid losing for the fifth time in a row?
The trade of Skubal was aimed at keeping him from potential NL threats, and this debut will contribute to the rotation once every four days. It's likely he won't change much immediately but his presence definitely adds value to the team's playoff chances.
Who are the key players worth watching tonight?
Pete Crow-Armstrong for the Cubs is already a MVP candidate, and his matchups with Dodgers' star hitters such as Ohtani will be intriguing. Meanwhile, Skubal’s first home start could prove pivotal in this series.