Tarik Skubal is stepping into uncharted territory-and he’s doing it with the kind of numbers that demand attention.
The Detroit Tigers’ ace and back-to-back AL Cy Young winner has filed for a record-setting $32 million salary in arbitration. The Tigers countered at $19 million, setting up a $13 million gap-the largest ever in MLB arbitration history. That’s not just a negotiation; that’s a full-on battle over what dominance on the mound is truly worth in today’s game.
And make no mistake: Skubal has been dominant. In 2025, he didn’t just lead the American League-he led all of baseball in several key categories.
A 2.21 ERA, a staggering 187 ERA+, and a 2.45 FIP tell the story of a pitcher who wasn’t just good-he was elite. Add in a 0.891 WHIP, a minuscule 1.5 walks per nine innings, and a 7.30 strikeout-to-walk ratio, and you’re looking at a season that would make even the most seasoned hitters lose sleep.
This arbitration case isn’t just about dollars-it’s about precedent. If Skubal wins, his $32 million salary would break the record for the highest ever awarded through arbitration, surpassing Juan Soto’s $31 million mark from 2024. That’s a big deal, especially for starting pitchers, who have historically lagged behind position players when it comes to arbitration payouts.
Consider this: David Price’s $19.75 million mark from 11 years ago has stood as the high-water mark for pitchers in arbitration. Adjusted for inflation, that number would be closer to $27 million today. Skubal’s camp, led by agent Scott Boras, believes it’s time for that ceiling to rise-and Skubal’s resume might just be strong enough to force the issue.
The Tigers, of course, will make their case soon, arguing why one of the most dominant arms in baseball isn’t worth what he’s asking. But it’s a tough case to make when the numbers are this overwhelming. Skubal has not only performed-he’s redefined what elite looks like over a two-year stretch.
And there’s more at stake than just this year’s salary. Skubal is set to hit free agency next offseason, and if his current trajectory holds, he could be looking at a record-breaking deal. But before that, he’s aiming to reset the arbitration market-to draw a line in the sand and say, “This is what excellence is worth.”
The decision is expected soon. One way or another, this case could reshape how we value the game’s best arms-and how teams are forced to pay for greatness.