
Tigers Pass on Long-Term Extension as Skubal Weighs Free Agency Next Winter
Detroit did not pursue a long-term extension for Tarik Skubal this offseason, with no talks on a 2026 salary or even a one-year deal after he filed for $32 million in arbitration. Skubal later won his arbitration case with a $32 million award, underscoring his high market value and increasing the likelihood he’ll test free agency next winter. Boras clients famously slow-play extensions, and the Tigers’ stance suggests they aren’t prepared to pay a premium to keep him. If healthy, Skubal is expected to command a record FA deal, likely leaving Detroit after 2026 as the team pivots toward a rotation that may eventually include Framber Valdez, Jack Flaherty, Casey Mize, and Justin Verlander as they pursue a World Series.



