While Major League Baseball's General Managers' meetings get underway in Las Vegas, trade talk is heating up around one of the league's most dominant left-handers: Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal.

The Tigers' season might have ended painfully in Game 5 of the American League Division Series against the Seattle Mariners, but it's what is happening off the field that's catching everyone's attention.

Detroit Tigers Facing Contract Standoff With Tarik Skubal

MLB Trade Rumors: Mets Plot Blockbuster Trade for Tigers Ace MLB Trade Rumors: Mets Plot Blockbuster Trade for Tigers Ace
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Skubal's long-term future in Detroit remains up in the air, as negotiations between him and the Tigers seem to have come to a standstill.

MLB insider Jon Heyman of the New York Post commented on the "sizeable" gap between both sides for an extension, which has sparked speculation that the Tigers might look to trade him.

Though a trade remains unlikely, Detroit is listening, and calls keep coming. Among the interested suitors, one name stands out: the New York Mets, anxious to rebuild their pitching rotation with top-flight talent.

Mets Eye Skubal as a Franchise-Changing Arm

The Mets have reportedly held internal discussions about acquiring Skubal, according to New York Post reporter Mike Puma. The price would be steep, though. Per Puma, the Tigers would seek a huge package of top prospects, potentially four in total, with three ranked in the organization's top 10 and another within the top 20.

Names making the rounds include Carson Benge, Jett Williams, Jonah Tong, and Brandon Sproat. Of course, the Mets won't be trading away their top prospect, Nolan McLean, who is projected to feature extensively in next season's rotation.

What Detroit Could Demand in Return

While Detroit would certainly want elite prospects, they could also want major-league-ready talent to help shore up their pitching staff. According to Sports Illustrated, Puma suggests that veteran pitchers like Clay Holmes or David Peterson might be included to balance out the trade package and offer immediate rotation depth for the Tigers.

Beyond pitching, Detroit could pursue infield prospects or bullpen help. Any deal, however, needs to align with the Tigers' competitive timeline. There's been a lot of trade talk surrounding Detroit, but be assured, they do intend to contend again next season, and moving their ace would put a real damper on things.