New Tarik Skubal Trade Rumors Reveal Which Team Is Seen as 'Sleeper' for Tigers Star at MLB Deadline

The Atlanta Braves have looked like a World Series contender so far this season, and they reportedly have their eyes on a major upgrade at the trade deadline.

USA Today's Bob Nightengale reported Sunday that "several executives predict" the Braves to be a "sleeper" in the race for Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal. Nightengale noted that a potential trade for Skubal could cost Atlanta two of its top-10 prospects, one of which is in the top 100 overall.

Skubal's future with the Tigers was already in question coming into the season amid last year's contract disputes, and Detroit's struggles this year have only indicated further that a trade is coming.

ESPN's Jeff Passan also confirmed last week that Skubal won't sign an extension with the Tigers this season, so he can hit free agency, another reason why it might be in Detroit's best interest to trade him now.

The Tigers are five games back in the wild card race at 33-44, while Atlanta owns the best record in baseball at 48-28.

Rotation help is one of the Braves' biggest needs at the deadline, especially with Spencer Strider's recent designation to the 60-day injured list. If the Braves can put together a rotation highlighted by Skubal and Chris Sale, it could be enough for them to get back to the World Series.

Skubal hasn't exactly been in his typical form this season as he's battled injuries, but he's still recorded a 3.03 ERA and a 1.02 WHIP in nine starts.