Tigers Lead AL Central Amid Skubal Contract Uncertainty

The Detroit Tigers, currently leading the AL Central and among MLB's top teams, have faced criticism for their mostly quiet trade deadline moves, adding only Charlie Morton and Kyle Finnegan. Ace pitcher Tarik Skubal, the 2024 AL Cy Young Award winner, led the Tigers to a 7-5 win over the Phillies but has not agreed to a long-term extension and is now represented by agent Scott Boras. Skubal remains under team control through 2026, yet is rumored to be considering free agency due to the Tigers' reluctance to offer a record-breaking contract. The front office, led by Scott Harris, continues to emphasize organizational depth over an immediate championship push. This approach has fueled speculation that Skubal could leave after 2026 if the team does not make a stronger commitment to building around him. The situation is being closely monitored, as retaining Skubal is seen as crucial for the franchise's future.