While they collapsed late in the season and blew their AL Central lead, the Detroit Tigers once again reached the
While they collapsed late in the season and blew their AL Central lead, the Detroit Tigers once again reached the playoffs with the help of superstar pitcher Tarik Skubal. However, there are big questions about his future in Motown as he enters the final year of his rookie contract.
It was a topic of discussion on a recent edition of the Foul Territory Show, and The Athletic’s Cody Stavenhagen suggested a trade is something the organization must consider because there is little doubt that Skubal’s agent, Scott Boras, will take him into the open market in 2026 to make him the highest-paid pitcher of all time.
After another Cy Young Award-worthy season, his value has never been higher, and they can get a king’s ransom for his services. With that in mind, let’s look at six teams that would make a strong push for the ace pitcher in the winter if the Tigers were willing to hear offers.
New York Mets
The New York Mets’ stunning late-season collapse revealed one clear problem: A lack of a true ace pitcher. They have some very nice young pitchers emerging, but they badly lack an elite talent at the top of the rotation. After their awful finish to 2025, they are sure to take some bold deals to ensure a playoff return next season and will definitely look into a Skubal trade if he’s available.
The Mets have, arguably, the best farm system in baseball. As well as some high-upside young talent with MLB experience that would definitely intrigue the Tigers. On paper, they could potentially make the best offer.
- Tarik Skubal stats: 13-6 Record, 2.21 ERA, 0.891 WHIP, 241 Strikeouts, 33 walks
Baltimore Orioles
Similar to the Mets, the Baltimore Orioles fell well below expectations in 2025. They finished dead last in the AL East and badly need a game-changing talent at the top of the rotation. Two years ago, they went out and got Corbin Burnes without giving up elite prospects, and he was a great addition for them. They still have one of the best farm systems and prospect pools in the game, and a desire to prove to fans they are committed to being a perennial playoff contender for years to come.
Arizona Diamondbacks
Speaking of Burnes, he should be back for the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2026 following Tommy John surgery in June. After missing the playoffs for a second straight season, they will want to prove their 2023 run to the World Series was not just a blip in club history. The combo of Burnes and Skubal could be dynamite for Arizona. Similar to the epic teaming of Randy Johnson and Curt Schilling over two decades ago.
Plus, Arizona has one of the better farm systems in the game and some intriguing prospects they could make available in a blockbuster trade.
- Tarik Skubal contract (Arbitration projection): $18 million in 2026
Philadelphia Phillies
The Philadelphia Phillies again won over 90 games in 2025, and it didn’t matter as they were ousted from the MLB Playoffs in the divisional series this month. Major changes are likely this winter. One of them could be going after a game-changing ace that can get them back to the World Series, like Tarik Skubal. Philly has some good prospects they could offer Detroit, and if the Tigers were interested, Philadelphia would be willing to include future Hall of Famer Bryce Harper in the deal.
Chicago Cubs
The Chicago Cubs took a very nice step forward in year two for manager Craig Counsell. They won 92 games and have rising stars in Pete Crow-Armstrong and Cade Horton. They are built for another playoff trip in 2026. But they are also not far off from being a serious title contender. Skubal would certainly elevate them into being an early favorite from the NL next season. They have a good farm system and the motivation to make a bold move this winter.
San Francisco Giants
Despite a blockbuster trade for Rafael Devers this season, the San Francisco Giants won just 81 games this season. It is why skipper Bob Melvin got the axe after the season. Team president Buster Posey has shown he is willing to take daring steps to get the club back to being a consistent playoff contender. Going after Skubal to get back to the postseason and better compete with the Los Angeles Dodgers is something Posey will certainly look into if the star pitcher is available.
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