Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal had a blunt, one-word response following a failed salary arbitration negotiation with the organization.

“Business.”

That single word, posted by Skubal after a reported $13 million gap separated him from the Tigers, immediately grabbed attention around Major League Baseball. According to ESPN insider Jeff Passan, the difference between the two sides is “by far the largest gap in salary arbitration history,” setting the stage for a highly anticipated arbitration hearing in February.

Even prominent Michigan figures like Tom Izzo and Greg Kampe have publicly expressed their desire to see Skubal remain in Detroit—but the situation is becoming increasingly complicated.

Contract Negotiations Turn Cold in Detroit

Skubal’s reaction underscores the reality of modern MLB contract negotiations. While loyalty and team identity matter to fans, players at Skubal’s level understand that negotiations are ultimately about value.

If the Tigers are unwilling to meet his market worth, Skubal has little reason to hesitate when exploring future opportunities elsewhere. At this point, it’s strictly business.

And for a pitcher of his caliber, the market will be massive.

Tarik Skubal Is One of MLB’s Most Valuable Pitchers

Skubal is already among the most coveted players in baseball. The two-time reigning American League Cy Young Award winner is in the prime of his career—something rarely available on the open market.

While some teams, including the New York Yankees, may be monitoring other pitching options due to the cost, Skubal’s price tag reflects his elite production.

Skubal’s 2025 Season Was Historic

Skubal’s dominance in 2025 fully justified his Cy Young status:

2.21 ERA

241 strikeouts

13–6 record

195.1 innings pitched

American League WAR leader

7.3 strikeout-to-walk ratio

Tigers went 21–10 in his starts

His back-to-back Cy Young Awards marked the first time an AL pitcher had accomplished the feat since Pedro Martínez.

Tigers Risk Undermining Their Future

The Tigers enjoyed a strong 2025 campaign, advancing to the ALDS before falling to the Seattle Mariners in five games. However, failing to secure Skubal long-term could undo much of that progress.

Losing an ace of his magnitude wouldn’t just weaken the rotation—it could significantly impact the franchise’s competitiveness and long-term direction.

If Detroit truly wants to build on its recent success, keeping Tarik Skubal should be a top priority. Otherwise, his one-word message may prove prophetic.