4hzglory

That is definitely an interesting take and in hindsight may have some validity. At least in regards to Paddock and Morton

That’s why I said someone like Ryan who is under control beyond 2026.

I think you’re overestimating the likelihood of performance of the packages and underestimating the value of 2026 Skubal to this team. IMO that value is worth more than 1 top prospect in an organization and a flyer-I’m valuing the comp pick as roughly one of the top prospects in those organizations.

You’re not the only one 😀

If anything, the Tigers should be trading for another Skubal for next year instead of trading him. If Ryan for example would be available for 1 of our top 3 plus more of our next 3, that would make more sense with their opportunity to compete than trading Skubal. It’s easy for some fans to say, trade him for prospects for the future, but do you really think it wouldn’t destroy the morale of the club to know they have a chance to again likely be in the postseason, but the team is trading away their best opportunity for that, especially advancing in the postseason for prospects? Even though we didn’t win either of Skubal’s starts, I believe his presence for game 2 forced the Mariners to make some decisions and press that helped us win game 1.

I agree, but I don’t think you get that in 2026-at least the best of Jobe. They would need to sign Mize or a similar replacement, but this is why I don’t think it’s all hopeless if Skubal leaves for a draft pick after 2026.

Anderson was on BA’s hot sheet for the 1st week. McGonigle and he both had solid first weeks. I remember seeing stats on Bless You Boys

I don’t think we are looking at missing the playoffs for 10 years by not trading Skubal. I think we have considerably more options of improving our team internally in 2027 and beyond than we do in 2026. So yes, losing Skubal will hurt, but it doesn’t mean no playoffs in 2027 or 2028 and beyond. Trading Skubal for prospects this offseason on the other hand, almost guarantees IMO we don’t have a chance in the playoffs (or likely getting there) in 2026. With him, we are the favorites in the Central. Without him, we are likely competing with Minnesota for 3rd in 2026. I also think it would extremely hurt the positive morale in the clubhouse as well as $ coming in from fans.

He just got an extention in December up to over $9 mil/yr, but it's only until 2030, so yes, they likely add some years & $ to it if needed.

I'd rather have 2026 Skubal and the comp pick and go win the Central and see how far we can go.

As 84 and Cassie said above, IMO Keith should be the primary 3B the way the roster is currently constructed.

I tend to agree with you. I just can't think of any other reason Melton specifically only went 1 inning.

Arrenado had a no trade clause - he was using that to veto trades.

And trading Skubal, coming off consecutive postseason appearances. (and series wins) would do the exact opposite of that.

I think the potential of a game on Sunday was the reason Melton and Keizer only went 1 inning Friday.

When they are favorites for the division with him and not without, I would definitely take it over 2 top prospects.

I mean for 2026.

Put it this way. If you could sign Skubal as a FA for a 1 year $20 mil contract for next season knowing you only get him that year, but you get a comp pick afterwards, would you do it?

In 2027, we would have more internal options (a healthy Jobe with a year of recovery being a main one)to make up some of the loss of Skubal. We also should have McGonigle and Clark and maybe others. In other words, there are more opportunities for a Tiger team without Skubal to be better in 2027 than in 2026. Trading Skubal definitely would punt 2026 IMO-it could potentially improve 2027 and beyond. Keeping Skubal and letting him leave as a FA should keep us the favorites in the central and gives time for prospects/other options to help improve the overall team in 2027 and beyond.

You said it wasn’t punting on 2026 if they trade Skubal. I think they know they aren’t signing him beyond that and theoretically could use that money to improve while they still have Skubal.

What Skubal is expected to make in arbitration is basically what Flaherty made last year-you aren’t going to make many upgrades for that.

That’s rough for the O line and secondary.

Out of likes, but agree completely

I think there is close to zero chance they trade Skubal and that it’s considerably more likely they try and extend Mize rather than trade him.

The QO is for a set amount for all players. It’s expected to be around $22 mil for 2026. And yes, if he declines his option, we can offer it.