Tarik Skubal Explains Role on USA's 2026 WBC Roster, Timeline for Tigers Return amid Contract Rumors

Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Tarik Skubal told reporters Monday that he will only be making one start for Team USA in the upcoming World Baseball Classic, stressing the need to get ready for the 2026 season and be present for his Tiger teammates.

"I'm trying to do both things, trying to pitch for Team USA but I understand the need to be here with these guys and get ready for the season," Skubal noted, per Cody Stavenhagen of The Athletic.

"I think it's kind of the best of both worlds in that aspect, and I'm grateful they took me in that capacity."

Bob Nightengale of USA Today relayed more details on the WBC start.

The reigning two-time American League Cy Young award winner is in his final year under contract with the Tigers. He won an arbitration case against the team and will make $32 million in 2026.

It's possible that Skubal has a chance to become the first-ever $400 million pitcher in baseball, per ESPN's Kiley McDaniel last November.

"If he does hit the market next winter, Skubal has a chance of surpassing Los Angeles Dodgers ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto's record $325 million contract, and he could even become baseball's first $400 million pitcher."

Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic also threw out that number earlier this month, writing thar Skubal "is headed toward a potential $400 million contract in free agency."

Jayson Stark of The Athletic also provided some insight into his contract and potential future in Detroit.

"Nothing about the current vibe around the Tigers suggests that they're seriously considering moving Skubal this spring. But who knows where this is leading?

"He's flooring it down the road to the richest free-agent pitching contract ever next winter. But is that happening in Detroit? Seems like an awful bet. Meanwhile, is it possible there will be lingering issues from his historic win in arbitration? Heck, anything is possible. So no wonder one rival AL Central exec wouldn't rule this out.

"'I'll believe it when I see it,' he said, 'but …' (never say never)."

In the meantime, the left-hander is getting ready for the season, which will begin on Thursday, March 26, when the Tigers visit the San Diego Padres. Skubal will start Opening Day for the third straight year.