The Detroit Tigers and pitcher Tarik Skubal are on track for a salary arbitration hearing, and the numbers involved are already making history. The Tigers filed for $19 million, while Skubal’s camp asked for $32 million. That $13 million difference is the largest gap ever in MLB arbitration.
If the hearing happens, a panel will decide whether Skubal will make $19 million or $32 million in the 2026 season. With Skubal possibly headed for a trade or record-setting free agency, the outcome could have major implications for Detroit’s future.
There is a small sign of hope for the Tigers. Skubal’s agent, Scott Boras, says he’s open to negotiating. That could allow Detroit to offer something closer to $32 million and avoid a tense arbitration battle. It’s not clear if the Tigers will do that, but it could make sense to try to reach a deal.
Skubal is a two-time AL Cy Young winner. That makes it unlikely he will lose in arbitration. Boras isn’t known for making easy compromises, so Detroit would likely have to get very close to $32 million to finalize a deal.
With so much at stake for both sides, baseball fans across the league are watching this situation closely. Skubal’s next move could shape the Tigers’ future and make arbitration history.
