An ESPN MLB insider has hinted that Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal's next contract could resemble the deal signed by outfielder Kyle Tucker, according to a report from Yahoo Sports. The comparison points to a significant long-term commitment for the left-handed pitcher, who has emerged as one of the American League's top starters.
Skubal, 27, finished fifth in AL Cy Young voting in 2024 after posting a 2.58 ERA over 159 innings. Tucker, 27, recently agreed to a seven-year, $177 million extension with the Chicago Cubs after being acquired from the Houston Astros. The structural similarity suggested by the insider could involve comparable average annual value and opt-out clauses, though specific terms were not disclosed.
The Tigers have publicly expressed desire to lock up their rotation anchor long-term, with general manager Scott Harris calling Skubal "a cornerstone of our franchise" earlier this offseason. Negotiations are expected to intensify before spring training.
