With the 2024 MLB Trade Deadline just over a month away the Detroit Tigers must weigh their options, the spotlight falls on Tarik Skubal - a pitcher whose value has never been higher. Below, we delve into the compelling arguments both for and against trading Skubal. From his dominant performance to the risks posed by past arm injuries, the decision isn’t straightforward. Let’s explore the complexities surrounding this talented player and the impact it would have on the Tigers’ future.
The Case For:
Value Never Higher
Despite a couple of recent rough starts, Tarik Skubal remains one of the front runners for the 2024 American League Cy Young Award. His dominate stat sheet allows Detroit to ask for nearly anything to start negotiations in return for Skubal in a trade.
Scott Boras Client
Skubal is represented by Scott Boras, which presents three potential outcomes:
Scenario 1: Skubal continues to dominate, forcing Detroit to sign a mega deal to retain him.
Scenario 2: Boras plays the waiting game, delaying negotiations until Spring Training 2027. This strategy often results in a player having a subpar season (as seen with Montgomery and Snell in 2024).
Scenario 3: Skubal hits the free agent market, leaving Detroit with nothing.
Multiple years of team control
Skubal has two years of arbitration remaining (2025 and 2026) before becoming an unrestricted free agent in 2027 at age 30. These years of control increase Skubal’s trade value.
throwing arm injuries
Skubal has undergone significant throwing arm surgeries, including Tommy John Surgery in 2017 and Felxor Tendon Surgery in 2022. Detroit could capitalize on his health during the second half of the 2023 and the current 2024 seasons to receive a substantial return.
The Case Against:
Build Around Him; True ace
Over his last 29 starts, Skubal boasts a 15-5 record with a 2.49 ERA, 200 strikeouts, and only 30 walks surrendered over 166.1 innings pitched. His 5.5 WAR during this period demonstrates his ability to dominate any lineup. Keeping Skubal allows Detroit to build around their pitching staff (including Olson and Mize) in 2025.
Cy Young caliber arm
Despite recent struggles, Skubal remains a front runner for the 2024 American League Cy Young Award; currently +240 odds on FanDuel’s Sportsbook. Trading a 27-yaer-old with such potential and multiple years of team control seems unjustifiable.
multiple years of team control remaining
Skubal won’t hit free agency until 2027 at age 30. With two years of arbitration ahead, his salary could remain team-friendly, allowing the Tigers to allocate payroll elsewhere and attempt to build a contender.
In summary, the decision to trade Tarik Skubal involves balancing his high value, injury history, and potential as a true ace. Detroit must weigh these factors carefully as they navigate the trade market. What do you think? Should the Tigers hold onto Skubal or explore trade options?