Tigers weigh trade options for Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal before deadline
Detroit evaluates whether to keep two-time Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal for the stretch run or trade him for prospects, as several clubs express interest.
Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal is set to make his 150th major-league start on Wednesday against the Baltimore Orioles, but his future beyond that game remains uncertain. With the team 3½ games out of the AL wild-card spot and the trade deadline approaching, the organization is considering whether to retain Skubal for the final stretch or move him in exchange for prospects.
Baseball analyst Jeff Feinsand said the Tigers face a difficult decision, noting that while they are still in the race, “the best move for them in the long term is to become a seller.” He added that a trade could bring back a sizable haul, potentially involving players such as Gleyber Torres, Casey Mize, Kenley Jansen and Kyle Finnegan, but warned that dealing a star pitcher while still competing could send a negative message to fans and clubhouse members.
Other analysts highlighted the market interest. Brewers writer Adam McCalvy reported that Milwaukee has contacted Detroit about Skubal and could offer a major-league-ready starter, though doing so would thin their rotation. Cubs commentator Jordan Bastian noted that Chicago’s interest may depend on its own playoff positioning, and that the team would likely avoid sacrificing top farm talent.
Dodgers senior writer Jim Callis pointed out that Los Angeles, dealing with injuries to Shohei Ohtani, might have incentive to acquire Skubal, potentially offering prospects such as Justin Wrobleski or Emmett Sheehan. Rays reporter Adam Berry said Tampa Bay could consider a package of controllable pitchers and rule-5-eligible prospects, given its deep farm system and desire to strengthen a rotation already featuring Shane McClanahan and Drew Rasmussen.
Yankees beat writer Bryan Hoch expressed doubt that New York could meet Detroit’s asking price, suggesting any offer would likely include a mix of major-league-ready arms and high-upside prospects.
Overall, the Tigers appear poised to explore offers that would bring immediate major-league talent while preserving future flexibility, as the deadline looms and the team’s postseason hopes remain tentative.