Skubal's Contract Gap Forces Tigers' Winter Decision

Tarik Skubal’s contract standoff has become the central question of the Tigers’ offseason as he enters his final year of team control. Skubal, the 2024 AL Cy Young winner and a 2025 frontrunner who has led the American League in ERA in consecutive seasons, is widely regarded as an elite ace. Reporting says Detroit’s prior offer was under $80 million over four years, far below market expectations, leaving a wide extension gap and fueling trade rumors. The Tigers must decide this winter whether to pay a premium to retain their frontline starter and remain competitive or trade him to accelerate a rebuild and collect assets. Commentators including Jim Bowden have urged Detroit to consider chasing a power bat such as Kyle Schwarber (projected around six years, $160 million) if the club aims to capitalize on any remaining title window.