Tigers president defends return in Skubal trade
ESPN · 2026-08-04
Detroit Tigers president Scott Harris defended the trade of pitcher Tarik Skubal, asserting that waiting until closer to the trade deadline would not have maximized the return. Harris explained that markets for top-tier players operate differently, making the notion of a last-second deal ineffective for high-value assets like Skubal. He praised the acquired prospects: Zyhir Hope for his power, speed, and hitting skills; River Ryan as a potential front-line starter expected to reach the majors by September; and Brady Smith as a projectable starter with an elite changeup. Harris stated that the offers received were the maximum possible, despite the Tigers' initial expectations to contend for the AL Central before injuries led to a 6-22 May. He took responsibility for the team's position to sell, acknowledging that Skubal, who went 31-10 with a 2.30 ERA and 469 strikeouts from 2024-2025, was set on free agency to pursue the largest contract ever for a starting pitcher, a decision Harris supported.
*The full article also explores Skubal's injury history and recovery, and Harris's views on the asymmetrical nature of trade negotiations.*