Back-to-back AL Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal filed at $32 million. The Detroit Tigers filed at $19 million. A resolution for Skubal’s arbitration process to determine his 2026 salary will hopefully come to light on Wednesday, according to The Athletic’s Cody Stavenhagen. 

The $13 million difference between Skubal’s asking price and the Tigers’ provided salary is the largest in MLB’s arbitration history.

In just a few days, Detroit’s representatives will present their case as to why Skubal, the best starting pitcher in baseball, deserves to make $13 million less than he and his agent, Scott Boras, think he does. 

If Skubal wins, his $32 million would set the record for a salary from arbitration, beating out Juan Soto’s $31 million in 2024. 

Why Skubal could win this case 

It’s nearly unheard of for a starting pitcher to have as dominant a season as Skubal did consecutively. In 2025, he led the AL in ERA (2.21), ERA+ (187), and FIP (2.45). The lefty led the Major Leagues in WHIP (0.891), BB/9 (1.5), and SO/BB (7.30). 

“Given Skubal’s two consecutive years of dominance, the case could break arbitration precedent, creating a higher ceiling for star players. Arbitration salaries for pitchers have generally lagged behind position players,” wrote Stavenhagen.

“[David] Price’s $19.75 million record has stood for 11 years. That number would be worth close to $27 million today, factoring in inflation.” 

Next offseason, Skubal reaches free agency and could break the record for a contract given to a starter. But before that, the 29-year-old will try to set the precedent that he believes in what he deserves. 

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