The Detroit Tigers had high hopes following their playoff success in 2025. Ownership and the front office committed to making another strong attempt in 2026 by enlisting notable players. They acquired Framber Valdez, a top-tier pitcher, and brought Kenley Jansen to reinforce the bullpen. They offered Gleyber Torres a costly qualifying proposal to retain one of their most reliable hitters. Additionally, they invested $150 million in top prospect Kevin McGonigle to secure his prime years. Crucially, they chose not to trade their star pitcher, Tarik Skubal.
In 2025, Skubal clinched his second consecutive Cy Young Award, solidifying his status as one of baseball’s finest pitchers. This accolade raised expectations of a record-breaking contract once he hits free agency after the 2026 season. The likelihood of an extension with Detroit remains slim.
Complications arise with the season shifting into June. Skubal has been sidelined since early May due to an elbow injury. The Tigers’ player group, which wowed in 2025, currently ranks as the third worst offense and defense in baseball for 2026, according to FanGraphs. While their starting pitching is commendable, the bullpen struggles, showing dismal performance despite Jansen’s involvement. The bullpen ranks second in blown saves and last in win probability added while contrasting with Cleveland’s impressive figures.
As the Guardians sit atop the rankings at 34-26, Detroit occupies last place at 22-37, trailing by 11.5 games. A potential trade for Skubal gains feasibility, supported by insights from The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal.
It’s trending that way. Talking with people around the game, that is their feeling. The outlook right now is rather bleak, and honestly, it’s difficult to imagine them making up a 14-game under .500 deficit, getting back to .500, and then contending even in a weak American League.
Rosenthal question’s Skubal’s health for future trades. Skubal is on a fast-track recovery from elbow surgery, aiming to pitch by mid-late June. This timing affords Detroit a month before the trade deadline to reassess Skubal’s trade value.
Rosenthal shared that teams would “line up” if Skubal returns. If Detroit’s position remains challenging, they might have to consider trading him.
MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand spoke with league executives who concur that Skubal should be moved if Detroit is not in contention.
I would think they try to move him at the Deadline if they are this far out of contention. They know they are not going to sign him, so you have to do what’s best for the organization.
Interest in Skubal, even as a pending free agent, remains high. Teams like the Dodgers, Yankees, and Braves are eyeing the prospect of acquiring him. Milwaukee Brewers, known for their adept trades involving expiring contracts, emerge as a wildcard candidate.
Skubal, despite pending free agency, boasts significant trade value. His influence in playoff scenarios is potent, particularly if his form returns quickly. If aggressive, big-market teams might attempt for an extension pre-free agency, aware that acquisition of a premier pitcher capable of altering postseason dynamics is uncommon.
Detroit’s decisions regarding Skubal could redefine their strategic path in the coming weeks, underscoring the substantial impact this player’s future holds.