The two sides clearly have different opinions on Skubal’s value. That was clear during their arbitration hearing while Skubal’s representatives requested a salary of $32 million, and the Tigers responded with $19 million. A decision is expected on Thursday.
The disagreement over Skubal’s value extends to any long-term deal. Jon Heyman of the New York Post reported a $250 million gap between Skubal and the Tigers an extension. The only glimmer of hope for an agreement was that agent Scott Boras said he has no deadline for talks about a new contract.
Detroit Tigers are preparing for the end of the Tarik Skubal era
This hope may have officially ended on Wednesday. The Tigers have reportedly agreed to a three-year, $115 million contract with pitcher Framber Valdez. Pairing Valdez and Skubal gives the Tigers perhaps the best 1-2 punch atop a rotation in the majors.
There may be other costs associated with that price tag. The Tigers have been hesitant about Skubal’s asking price, but are apparently willing to pay Valdez a significant salary. Valdez has been a durable starter at the top of the rotation since moving into the rotation on a full-time basis in 2020, but he isn’t on the same level as Skubal.
Signing Valdez gives the Tigers a dominant duo atop their rotation. However, this signing could mark the beginning of the end for Skubal’s time in Detroit.
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