Tigers Lock Down Ace: Tarik Skubal Inks 2-Year contract extension, $30.3Million Deal to Stay in Detroit after being appointed as the…

Tigers Lock Down Ace: Tarik Skubal Inks 2-Year contract extension, $30.3Million Deal to Stay in Detroit after being appointed as the…

DETROIT — July 17, 2025 — The Detroit Tigers have made a bold and decisive move to secure the future of their pitching rotation by signing left-handed ace Tarik Skubal to a two-year, $30.3 million contract extension, the team announced Thursday. The deal comes just days after Skubal was officially named the club’s Opening Day starter for the upcoming season — a title that solidifies his growing leadership role both on and off the field.

Skubal, 28, has been the Tigers’ breakout star over the past two seasons, emerging as one of the most dominant and consistent pitchers in the American League. His combination of elite velocity, command, and strikeout ability has made him the centerpiece of Detroit’s rebuild and a fan favorite at Comerica Park.

“This extension means everything to me,” said Skubal during a press conference. “Detroit believed in me from day one, and I’m proud to continue wearing the Old English D. I’m ready to lead this team and bring winning baseball back to this city.”

The $30.3 million deal covers Skubal’s final two years of arbitration eligibility, offering both the player and the organization financial certainty while preserving the possibility of a longer-term extension in the future.

Tigers President of Baseball Operations, Scott Harris, praised Skubal’s professionalism and work ethic: “Tarik has earned this. He’s not only our ace but a clubhouse leader, and we believe he’ll play a huge role in taking us to the next level.”

Skubal posted a stellar 2024 campaign, going 14-7 with a 3.02 ERA, 213 strikeouts, and a WHIP of 1.05 in 29 starts. His performance drew All-Star consideration and solidified his reputation as one of MLB’s top young arms.

With the new deal in place and the Opening Day nod in hand, Skubal now has a clear runway to lead a hungry young Tigers team with playoff aspirations. Detroit fans, long awaiting a return to contention, have every reason to be excited about the future.