*This is a prediction*
One of the biggest 2026 MLB offseason storylines continues to surround the future of Tarik Skubal. It was already in question after it was announced that Skubal and the Detroit Tigers were far apart on a contract extension, but now with it being reported that the Tigers are entertaining trade calls, it leaves more uncertainty as to if Skubal will be in Detroit much longer.
The Tigers continue to be engaged with other teams in discussing the Tarik Skubal trade options. Still unclear whether they’ll actually move the left-hander in a big trade; the asking prices are enormous, as you could imagine. He could be the biggest difference-maker for a new…
— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) December 5, 2025
With the two sides being $250 million off on a contract extension, it seems unlikely that the Tigers are going to be able to re-sign Tarik Skubal before next offseason. This means that the Tigers’ best option is to trade Skubal while they still can to get value back in return. With this being the case, the Philadelphia Phillies make sense as a destination if the Tigers look to trade Skubal.
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The Philadelphia Phillies need to make addressing their pitching depth a point of emphasis this offseason. Ranger Suarez is currently a free agent and seems unlikely to re-sign, and Zack Wheeler has already stated his plans to retire following the end of his contract in 2027. The Phillies need more pitching talent to round out their depth this season, as well as their long-term outlook.
The pitching talent for Philadelphia isn’t bad, as they have Aaron Nola, Jesus Luzardo, and Cristopher Sanchez, but with being in the National League West Division with a team like the Los Angeles Dodgers, they should look to add a true ace and frontline starter.
Trading for Tarik Skubal would provide this. For Philadelphia, they would have to extend him upon trading for him if they want to create the long-term stability, but with Skull’s talents he would be worth it.
Over his career so far, Tarik Skubal has a 3.08 ERA with a 1.025 WHIP and 889 strikeouts. His talent, combined with being just 29 years old still, would be the big move the Phillies need to make this offseason to show they are taking the next steps as contenders in the National League.