Tarik Skubal's $32 million contract demand might lead to Tigers trade

Matt Sullivan

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Tarik Skubal's $32 million contract demand might lead to Tigers trade image

The Detroit Tigers and Tarik Skubal have been one of the storylines of the offseason, despite nothing happening between the two sides.

But that lack of movement, on an extension, trade talks, and even agreeing to an arbitration figure, has made things a lot more interesting.

As Ken Rosenthal on Foul Territory notes, Skubal asking for $32 million from the Tigers in arbitration might be what causes the Tigers to trade the two-time Cy Young.

Tigers might trade Skubal after $32M demand

"If the Tigers are going to end up paying $32 million to Tarik Skubal, are they more inclined to trade him?" Rosenthal questioned. "For all anyone knows, Tarik Skubal might've asked for $32 million trying to force the issue with them, maybe trying to force a trade to another team."

This would be a drastic change in tone for the Tigers, as they've previously indicated they want to keep Skubal this season. It would also be a change from Skubal, as he's shown an interest in re-signing with Detroit.

But the $32 million demand from Skubal in arbitration, combined with the Tigers' paltry offer of $19 million, might force the envelope for a potential trade.

No player is more interesting than Skubal this winter, as the Tigers could make the massive decision to trade him away for a huge return if a team is willing to pay up.

More: Team USA World Baseball Classic roster: Bryce Harper, Tarik Skubal among stars on team for 2026 tournament

A team like the New York Mets would have the young pitching and prospect depth, along with Major League talent like Mark Vientos or Luisangel Acuna, to make a trade work.

The Los Angeles Dodgers are another obvious fit, but for now, the Tigers and Skubal don't appear headed for a split. But Rosenthal's point cannot be ignored, as there could be enough friction here to lead to a trade.

There's plenty of time for Skubal and the Tigers to figure out his 2026 salary, but Skubal might be subtly forcing a trade by his lofty $32 million arbitration demand this winter.

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Contributing Writer