Should the Tigers Trade Tarik Skubal? MLB Execs Weigh In
The Detroit Tigers have a rising superstar in Tarik Skubal, who has emerged as one of baseball’s most dominant pitchers in 2024. With a 2.45 ERA, 0.96 WHIP, and an elite 11.4 K/9, Skubal is a legitimate Cy Young contender. But as the July 30 trade deadline approaches, the Tigers face a critical decision: Should they trade their ace?
We polled MLB executives, scouts, and analysts to get their take on whether Detroit should deal Skubal or build around him.
The Case for Keeping Skubal
At 27 years old and under team control through 2026, Skubal is the ideal cornerstone for Detroit’s rebuild. The Tigers are within striking distance of an AL Wild Card spot, and moving him could derail their momentum.
“Elite left-handed starters like Skubal don’t grow on trees,” said an AL East executive. “Unless they’re completely blown away, trading him sets the franchise back.”
Others argue that Skubal’s presence accelerates Detroit’s timeline. With young stars like Riley Greene and Spencer Torkelson developing, the Tigers may only need a few more pieces to contend.
“You don’t trade a pitcher like this unless the offer is insane,” an NL scout noted. “He’s the guy you build a rotation around.”
The Case for Trading Skubal
Some insiders believe now is the time to sell high. Contenders like the Orioles, Dodgers, and Yankees could pay a premium for an ace of Skubal’s caliber, potentially netting Detroit multiple top-100 prospects and MLB-ready talent.
“If they get two elite prospects plus a big-league piece, they have to listen,” an NL front office source said. “Their farm still needs impact talent.”
A blockbuster deal could supercharge Detroit’s rebuild, giving them the depth needed to contend long-term.
The Verdict: Keep or Trade?
Opinions are sharply divided:
– Keep him? Detroit stays competitive with an ace leading the rotation.
– Trade him? A massive haul could fast-track the rebuild.
“It comes down to whether they believe in this core,” said a veteran MLB analyst. “If they do, keep Skubal. If not, this is their best chance to reload.”
Final Decision
Unless a historic offer arrives, the smart move is to hold onto Skubal. He’s young, affordable, and dominant—the exact type of pitcher teams covet.
But if a team like the Orioles offers Jackson Holliday or the Dodgers part with multiple top prospects, Detroit’s front office will face immense pressure to pull the trigger.
One thing is clear: The next few weeks will shape the Tigers’ future.
What do you think? Should the Tigers trade Skubal or keep him? Let us know in the comments!
