Home / Sports / Insider Warns Tigers: Best Time to Trade Skubal is Now
Insider Warns Tigers: Best Time to Trade Skubal is Now
22 Nov
Summary
- Tigers ace Tarik Skubal has excelled with a 2.30 ERA in two Cy Young seasons.
- An insider suggests trading Skubal now yields maximum return for the Tigers.
- Skubal denies asking for a trade and expresses frustration over contract rumors.
MLB insider Buster Olney has cautioned the Detroit Tigers, stating that the optimal time to trade ace Tarik Skubal is "now." Skubal has been a dominant force, achieving a 2.30 ERA and leading the American League in bWAR across two Cy Young-winning seasons. Olney's advice stems from the potential difficulty of trading a star pitcher during a playoff race in July, especially if the Tigers are contending for their division title.
The Tigers face a critical decision regarding Skubal's future, as he is set to hit free agency after the 2026 season. The club must weigh the benefits of securing a substantial return in the current offseason against the risks of potential injury during the 2026 regular season. While Skubal's performance has been stellar, the team's payroll constraints might prevent them from meeting his potential contract extension demands, which have been rumored to exceed $325 million.
Amidst the swirling trade speculation, Skubal himself has addressed the rumors, asserting that he has not requested a trade and expressing his frustration with contract-related narratives. He urges fans not to believe unverified reports. The Tigers have seen collective success alongside Skubal's individual brilliance, reaching the American League Division Series in consecutive seasons, and aim for further advancements in 2026.
