Tarik Skubal, one of Major League Baseball’s most promising pitchers, has seen his salary increase dramatically following his impressive 2024 performance with the Detroit Tigers. Currently earning just over $10 million this year, the reigning Cy Young Award winner is expected to significantly raise his market value once he becomes a free agent after the 2026 season. His exceptional talent and consistent results have put him in position for a historic contract.
Potential Record-Breaking Contract in the MLB Market
According to MLB analyst Buster Olney, Skubal is on track to secure a contract worth approximately $400 million upon entering free agency. This figure would set a new high for pitcher contracts in the league. The competition to sign him is intensifying, with the New York Yankees, Los Angeles Dodgers, and New York Mets emerging as the main contenders. As Olney noted,
“Skubal is set to land $400 million after next season. The question is whether it’ll come from Yankees, Dodgers, or Mets.”
—Buster Olney, MLB Insider
If finalized, Skubal’s deal would surpass the current record held by Max Fried, who signed an eight-year, $218 million contract with the Yankees. Apart from Shohei Ohtani’s unique two-way player status, Zack Wheeler of the Philadelphia Phillies holds the highest annual salary for a starting pitcher, earning around $42 million per year. Skubal’s prospective contract could reshape salary expectations for elite pitchers.
Detroit Tigers’ Position on Skubal’s Future
The Tigers face uncertainty as they consider whether to keep Skubal beyond his current contract. The organization has shown reluctance to begin immediate extension talks. With Scott Boras as Skubal’s agent, negotiation dynamics are complex, as Boras is known for pursuing aggressive deals that can prolong discussions. The Tigers have the option to negotiate before the end of the next season, but have yet to act decisively.
For now, Detroit is focused on the ongoing season, where they have emerged as strong competitors within the American League. Should Skubal deliver a standout postseason performance, it might influence the team’s willingness to offer a long-term contract. Presently, however, contract talks remain paused as both sides assess their options. Skubal’s rising profile indicates that the upcoming years could become a turning point not only in his career but also for major league pitching contracts overall.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What nationality is Tarik Skubal from?
A. Tarik Daniel Skubal, born on November 20, 1996, is a baseball player from the United States. He pitches for the Detroit Tigers in Major League Baseball.