Tigers get unexpected Tarik Skubal trade rumor amid arbitration disagreement

Matt Sullivan

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Tigers get unexpected Tarik Skubal trade rumor amid arbitration disagreement image

This offseason has been an interesting one for the Detroit Tigers and Tarik Skubal. Despite the Tigers' ace not being an easy player to trade, the beginning of the offseason drew plenty of hope for a potential deal.

But things calmed down in the weeks since that buzz. But once the Tigers and Skubal filed $13 million apart in their arbitration filings, the trade buzz immediately started back up.

However, according to Mark Feinsand of MLB.com, there are a few MLB executives who believe this contract dispute will actually hurt the chances of Skubal being traded in an unexpected update on one of the more interesting players this winter.

Tigers trade update on Tarik Skubal is not expected

"I don't think it changes much," One AL executive said. "I suppose if they lose, it might limit what else they can do financially. But I doubt they would act on that alone."

This arbitration hearing is significant, as the Tigers filed at $19 million while Skubal filed at $32 million. It's a $13 million difference, and it will have a huge impact on how Skubal and the Tigers are viewed going forward.

But, when it comes to a trade of Skubal, this AL executive doesn't believe the massive gap between Skubal and Detroit's front office means much when it comes to a trade.

Regardless of who wins in arbitration, the Tigers still might not be inclined to trade away Skubal. The uncertainty with his future is very real, and it will likely play a big factor in how he's perceived in the trade market.

More: MLB Hot Stove tracker: Live updates on news, rumors, signings and trades for 2025 free agency

One NL executive said on a potential Skubal trade this winter, "I think the uncertainty only makes it less likely that they move him."

While the massive gap in contracts filed for arbitration led to trade speculation, the uncertainty about his future deal, in the eyes of MLB execs, means the Tigers won't be dealing Skubal this offseason.

Something could come to fruition if they receive a very strong offer, but for now, the Tigers are not likely to trade away Skubal despite the gap in arbitration.

While rumors began swirling in the wake of these arbitration numbers, no trade is likely thanks to the uncertainty surrounding Skubal's situation in Detroit.

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