2-Time Cy Young Tarik Skubal Joins Team USA, Trade Speculation Heats Up

Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal, a back-to-back AL Cy Young winner in 2024 and 2025, has committed to pitch for Team USA at the 2026 World Baseball Classic. Skubal posted a 13-6 record with a 2.21 ERA and 241 strikeouts in 2025, following an 18-4, 2.39 ERA, 228 SO season in 2024. He joins a strong Team USA staff. Additionally, Skubal, who is a free agent after the 2026 season, is a prominent name in trade discussions, with the New York Mets and Philadelphia Phillies identified as potential suitors, though the Tigers are unlikely to move him.