Alec Bohm of the Philadelphia Phillies (Image via Getty) Trade talk around the Philadelphia Phillies has continued into early 2026, with the team frequently mentioned as a strong candidate to acquire Detroit Tigers left-hander Tarik Skubal. The Phillies are coming off another early playoff exit and appear focused on strengthening their starting rotation before the new season begins.Detroit faces a separate decision. Skubal remains one of the league’s top pitchers, but his next contract could become expensive if his performance continues at the same level. Rather than risk losing him in free agency, the Tigers could consider moving him now for players who offer longer control. A proposed return built around Alec Bohm and top prospect Andrew Painter has been discussed as a deal that fits both teams.
Proposed Trade Structure
Phillies receive: LHP Tarik Skubal – two-time AL Cy Young winner, arbitration-eligible and under team control through at least 2026.Tigers receive: 3B Alec Bohm, RHP Andrew Painter (top-100 prospect), and a lower-tier pitching prospect such as RHP Gage Wood.Skubal would join a rotation that already includes Zack Wheeler and Cristopher Sánchez, while Aaron Nola remains an option to rebound. Detroit would add an everyday hitter and two pitchers who could help in the coming years.
Why the Trade Makes Sense
Philadelphia Phillies Perspective
Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal throws during the first inning in Game 5 of baseball’s American League Division Series against the Seattle Mariners, Friday, Oct. 10, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson, File)
Tarik Skubal produced one of the best pitching seasons in baseball in 2025. Adding him would give Philadelphia Phillies a clear No. 1 starter and strengthen the top of the rotation for postseason play.Alec Bohm, who would likely headline the return, is a 28-year-old right-handed hitter with a career .272/.345/.426 slash line entering 2026. His OPS+ has generally fallen between 110 and 115. He makes consistent contact, reaches base at a solid rate, and remains relatively affordable with a projected $6-7 million arbitration salary. His defense at third base is considered below average, but he is a reliable everyday player.Trading Bohm and Painter would reduce some lineup depth and remove a high-upside arm from the system, but the return would be a proven frontline starter.
Detroit Tigers Perspective
Tarik Skubal will pitch his age-29 season in 2026 and is coming off a dominant year. Moving him now would allow Detroit to add multiple controllable pieces rather than face a difficult contract decision later.Alec Bohm could step directly into the lineup, while Painter brings a fastball, slider, and changeup mix that projects well in a future rotation. Wood would provide additional pitching depth without requiring Detroit to overhaul its farm system.
Pros and Cons
Philadelphia Phillies
Pros: • Add a true No. 1 starter. • Keep a strong group with Wheeler, Sánchez, and potentially Nola. • Delay the need for a major free-agent pitching contract.Cons: • Lose a dependable hitter in Bohm. • Trade a top pitching prospect in Painter. • Reduce rotation depth if injuries occur.
Detroit Tigers
Pros: • Avoid the risk of losing Skubal without compensation. • Add an MLB-ready third baseman. • Improve long-term pitching depth.Cons: • Give up an elite left-handed starter. • Take on a defender who grades below average at third base. • Depend on Painter reaching his projected ceiling.
Tarik Skubal vs Alec Bohm Statistical Comparison
Tarik Skubal – 2025 pitching profile
Metric2025 Value (approx.)Notes ERA 2.21 2nd-best in AL, strong run prevention WHIP 0.89 Best in majors Strikeouts (K) 241 2nd-most in AL Innings (IP) 195.1 Durable starter ERA+ ~187 Well above league average K/9 ~11.0 High strikeout rate BB/9 ~1.5 Strong command
Alec Bohm – 2025 batting profile
Metric2025 Value (approx.)Notes AVG/OBP/SLG .272/.345/.426 Consistent contact and on-base ability OPS+ ~110–115 Above league average Home runs (HR) ~15–18 Moderate power Defensive rating Below average at 3B Limited range
Tarik Skubal vs Alec Bohm Age, Contract Status, and Team Fit
Player2026 AgeContract status (2026)Notes Tarik Skubal 29 Arbitration-eligible; team control through at least 2026 with free-agency risk afterward High-value trade asset Alec Bohm 28 Arbitration-eligible; projected $6–7 million salary with additional control years Everyday lineup optionSkubal would likely lead Philadelphia’s rotation. Bohm would address a need in Detroit’s infield, while Painter and Wood could help replace lost innings over time.
Overall Outlook of the Mock Trade
In the short term, the Philadelphia Phillies would gain the most by adding a pitcher capable of leading a playoff rotation. Skubal’s recent production suggests he could change the balance in the National League. For Detroit Tigers, the benefit is tied to long-term planning. The Tigers would add controllable players and reduce financial uncertainty, but they would also be trading one of the top starters in the sport.Also read: MLB trade rumors: Los Angeles Dodgers reported to sign $400 million 2x Cy Young in a blockbuster deal with the Detroit Tigers; Roki Sasaki key trade asset?If completed, the deal would reflect two different priorities: immediate contention for Philadelphia and roster stability for Detroit.