MLB trade rumors: Baltimore Orioles could land $400 million Detroit Tigers Cy Young after blockbuster Pete Alonso deal to strengthen title run

The Baltimore Orioles look ready to push for contention after an uneven 2025 season. Their offseason already includes a major move which was signing Pete Alonso to a five-year, $155 million contract but the club may not be done.

Trade talk around the league suggests Baltimore is exploring a deal for Detroit Tigers left-hander Tarik Skubal.Nothing has been finalized as of February 2026, but several mock trades identify the Orioles as a strong fit. If a deal happens, it would impact both divisions and force each team to balance present needs with future plans.

Proposed Trade Package and Situation

One commonly discussed proposal has Baltimore Orioles acquiring Tarik Skubal, 28, who is entering his final year before free agency.

Detroit would receive outfielder Dylan Beavers, ranked No. 69 among MLB prospects, along with right-handers Trey Gibson and Luis Leon.Skubal delivered one of the best pitching seasons in baseball in 2025. He finished 13-6 with a 2.21 ERA, 241 strikeouts, a 0.891 WHIP, and 195 innings. His production has placed him among the game’s top starters.

The Tigers are at least listening because of a large arbitration gap. Skubal filed for $32 million, while the team countered at $19 million.

Moving him now would prevent the risk of losing him after 2026 without a return.Beavers, 24, hit .304/.420/.515 with 18 home runs in Triple-A last season. Gibson, ranked No. 46 among MLB prospects, profiles as a potential starter. Leon adds another young arm who could help the bullpen.

Why Baltimore Would Pursue the Deal

Tarik Skubal would lead a rotation that already includes Trevor Rogers, Kyle Bradish, and Shane Baz. Rogers posted a 3.12 ERA with 198 strikeouts in 2025, Bradish recorded a 3.39 ERA with 178 strikeouts, and Baz finished with a 3.87 ERA and 162 strikeouts.Projections suggest the Orioles’ World Series odds could rise from about 10% to 25% with an ace. Alonso, who had 264 home runs, a .272 average, and an .871 OPS in 2025, strengthens a lineup that also features Adley Rutschman (28 home runs, 92 RBIs) and Gunnar Henderson (32 home runs, 103 RBIs).The risk is control. Skubal could leave after one season if the Orioles do not extend him, similar to what happened when Corbin Burnes departed.

Detroit’s Reasoning

Trading Skubal would not necessarily signal a rebuild. Detroit remained competitive in 2025, with Skubal also posting a 10-11 record, a 3.11 ERA, and 223 strikeouts.Beavers could fill a corner outfield role, Gibson provides rotation depth, and Leon strengthens the pitching staff. The Tigers would also save roughly $13 million in arbitration, giving them more payroll flexibility as they plan ahead for 2027.

Pros and Cons

Pros • The Orioles add a top starter and could approach a 90-win projection. • The Tigers gain controllable prospects while staying competitive. • Skubal is positioned to command a free-agent contract that may reach $400 million.Cons • Baltimore would reduce its farm depth. • Detroit would be trading a franchise-level pitcher. • The Orioles risk getting only one season from Skubal.

Key 2025 Stats (Skubal vs. Orioles Rotation)

Prospect Demographics in Potential Tigers Return

My Two Cents on this Mock Trade

Baltimore Orioles would benefit immediately if Skubal performs at his usual level. Detroit’s advantage would likely come later by adding younger players and lowering payroll pressure.Also read: MLB trade rumors: Cincinnati Reds predicted to land $10.2 million New York Yankees star slugger in hopes of improving rotation and title oddsThe trade remains speculative, but its impact would be significant for both teams and could influence the American League race in 2026.