The New York Mets’ starting rotation was decimated by injuries last year, and it is clear the team lacks a true ace. With Tarik Skubal’s future in doubt, could he be traded?

Skubal and the Detroit Tigers are reportedly far apart in extension talks. Skubal is slated to be a free agent after next season, and if the Tigers see no path to re-signing him, a trade would make sense. Not many teams are going to be in the market for Skubal given his price tag. Few teams may be willing to give up a prospect haul and then turn around to lose Skubal on the open market.

Former Mets general manager Steve Phillips predicted on “MLB Tonight” that the Mets would make this blockbuster trade to land Skubal:

Mets receive: LHP Tarik SkubalTigers receive: RHP Brandon Sproat, RHP Jonah Tong, INF Luisangel Acuña and INF Brett Baty

The Tigers would be getting four players who could play a role in the big leagues right away. Meanwhile, the Mets get Skubal and take on the burden of trying to pay him. He is the ace the Mets need and may be willing to spend big to keep him in Queens. Not many teams and owners are going to be willing to get into a bidding war with Steve Cohen and the Mets.

Skubal is the reigning American League Cy Young Award winner and is the favorite to win the award again this year. Not only would he give the Mets an ace, but he is arguably the best pitcher in baseball.

More MLB: Yankees Predicted to Outbid Dodgers in Franchise-Altering $400M Move