DETROIT — Tarik Skubal walked off the mound in Game 5 of the American League Championship Series knowing he had done everything possible to keep the Detroit Tigers alive. The 28-year-old ace delivered another brilliant start — only for his team’s season to end in a crushing 15-inning loss. Now, as Detroit enters the offseason, the question looming over the franchise is whether its best pitcher will still be part of its future.
The 2026 season will be Skubal’s final year before free agency, and while the Tigers have engaged in contract extension talks, negotiations have stalled. After another early playoff exit and yet another game wasted by a lack of run support, Skubal will have plenty to think about regarding his long-term future in Detroit. Team officials insist they want to keep him, but the left-hander’s frustration has been visible — especially after being pulled early from a must-win elimination game that eventually ended in heartbreak.
For Skubal, the decision will come down to whether he believes the Tigers can take the next step. He’s expected to be one of the most sought-after names on the market if he becomes available, either through a blockbuster trade this winter or as a free agent next offseason. Multiple teams are already expected to monitor the situation closely, including the New York Mets, Toronto Blue Jays, Boston Red Sox and Philadelphia Phillies — all clubs with deep pockets and immediate championship ambitions.
Detroit’s reliance on Skubal has been both a blessing and a burden. He’s given the franchise an ace it can build around, but the Tigers’ inability to provide consistent offense has wasted several of his strongest outings. In 2025, Skubal was again among the league leaders in ERA, strikeouts and innings pitched, yet Detroit’s bats repeatedly fell silent in key games, including during the ALCS.
If extension talks fail to gain traction, the Tigers may be forced to listen to offers. General manager Scott Harris faces a pivotal offseason — one that could shape the team’s trajectory for years to come. Trading Skubal would be a devastating blow to fans, but losing him for nothing next winter would be even worse.
For now, Skubal remains under contract for one more year, but his future in the Motor City grows murkier by the day. After another October disappointment, both the pitcher and the franchise are left to wonder if their paths will continue together — or if this postseason marked the beginning of the end of Tarik Skubal’s time in Detroit.
