CC Sabathia says Detroit Tigers must trade Tarik Skubal

Hall of Fame pitcher CC Sabathia said the Detroit Tigers must trade ace Tarik Skubal before the July 31, 2026, trade deadline ^[1].

Sabathia's assessment highlights the tension between maintaining a star player and maximizing a team's long-term assets during a rebuilding phase. If a team is not positioned to win a championship, keeping a top-tier pitcher may prevent the organization from acquiring young talent, or prospects, through a trade.

Speaking on the NBC Sports program "MLB According to CC," Sabathia said it "makes no sense" for the Tigers to keep Skubal ^[1]. He said the organization should acquire value for the pitcher now because Detroit is not currently in contention ^[1]. Sabathia said that while the Tigers struggle, the Minnesota Twins have a legitimate chance to win the AL Central ^[1].

The debate over Skubal's future has intensified as the deadline approaches. A Yahoo Sports reporter said Skubal may have already thrown his final pitch as a member of the organization ^[2]. This sentiment aligns with the financial and strategic risks of holding a high-value asset on a non-contending roster.

Data suggests the Tigers are fighting an uphill battle. According to a Yahoo Sports analyst, the Detroit Tigers entered their series against the Baltimore Orioles with a 31.6% ^[3] chance of making the playoffs. This low probability supports Sabathia's view that the team is not in a position to prioritize a single ace over a broader roster overhaul.

Sabathia's comments emphasize the necessity of aggressive management during the trade window. He said the Tigers "have to trade" Skubal to ensure the franchise does not miss a critical opportunity to improve its overall depth ^[1].