Detroit Tigers eye trade of pitcher Tarik Skubal amid losing streak

The Detroit Tigers have fallen to the bottom of the American League Central, posting a 20‑33 record after an eight‑game losing streak that included a 5‑3 walk‑off loss to the Baltimore Orioles. With five of their starting pitchers on the injured list, the club’s season outlook is dire.

Pitcher Tarik Skubal, the 2024‑25 back‑to‑back Cy Young Award winner, is in the final year of his contract and has been sidelined by elbow surgery. Rehab is ahead of schedule, and he has resumed bullpen throwing just two weeks after a nano‑scope procedure. MLB Insider Jon Heyman noted, “Tarik Skubal trade chances are rising,” while USA Today’s Bob Nightengale wrote, “That’s 8 losses in a row… 1 step closer to putting Tarik Skubal on the trade block.”

Because the Tigers are unlikely to re‑sign Skubal and risk losing him for nothing in free agency, trade talks have intensified. The Los Angeles Dodgers are mentioned as the most likely destination, given their deep farm system and ability to meet the Tigers’ expected high price. The team may move Skubal before the trade deadline to recoup value and address roster needs.