Tarik Skubal stated that the Detroit Tigers never presented him with a long-term contract offer during the offseason, and discussions about his future will be paused until after the 2026 MLB season.
The 29-year-old ace won his arbitration hearing in February, resulting in a record $32 million salary for 2026 after the team had sought to pay $19 million.
Despite this resolution, Skubal's future in Detroit remains uncertain. He could become an unrestricted free agent next winter, potentially commanding over $400 million, which raises questions for the Tigers as the trade deadline approaches.
Skubal confirmed to USA Today that all contract talks are on hold until the offseason. "My focus is on playing baseball and winning this year," he said.
The left-hander will make a World Baseball Classic start before rejoining the Tigers for spring training. Detroit has strengthened its rotation this offseason, adding Framber Valdez and bringing back Justin Verlander, signaling a push for a World Series.
"That's where my focus is, trying to win a World Series for the city of Detroit," Skubal emphasized, expressing excitement about the team's championship aspirations this season.