Detroit Tigers Facing Tough Decisions Amid 2026 Struggles

The Detroit Tigers, after making the playoffs in 2025, aimed for another strong season in 2026. They signed top pitcher Framber Valdez and brought in Kenley Jansen to strengthen the bullpen. Gleyber Torres received an expensive qualifying offer to retain his services, while prospect Kevin McGonigle was secured with a $150 million deal. Crucially, they decided to keep Tarik Skubal, the reigning Cy Young Award winner. However, Skubal’s looming free agency in 2026 and potential record-breaking contract pose difficulties in securing an extension.

As of June, the Tigers have struggled. Skubal is sidelined with an elbow injury since May. Their once impressive position players now rank as the third worst in both offense and defense for 2026, according to FanGraphs. Starting pitching remains above average, yet the bullpen falters. With Jansen, they still suffer from 14 blown saves and rank last in win probability added.

Cleveland Guardians are leading with +3.87, while the Tigers trail at 22-37, 11.5 games behind first place. As hopes for a comeback dwindle, Tarik Skubal’s trade becomes increasingly feasible. The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal indicates the likelihood of a trade is growing as the team’s situation worsens. A successful championship run could mitigate the loss of Skubal in free agency, but such prospects are dim.

Skubal’s accelerated recovery from elbow surgery suggests a return to the field by mid-late June. This gives the Tigers a month before the trade deadline to decide on his future. Rosenthal notes, “Teams will line up” for Skubal if he is healthy, potentially prompting the Tigers to listen to offers.

MLB.com reports executives believe Skubal will be dealt if the Tigers remain far from contention. Big-market teams like the Dodgers, Yankees, and Braves show potential interest, with Milwaukee Brewers as a wildcard possibility. Skubal, despite pending free agency, could yield significant returns.

His impact in postseason games makes him a sought-after asset, and aggressive bidding from big-market teams may lead to extension talks. Detroit faces the challenge of leveraging Skubal’s value while navigating their current standing.

As the trade deadline approaches, the situation remains fluid, and Skubal’s fate could soon shift dramatically.