Detroit Tigers MLB rumors: Justin Verlander and Tarik Skubal could boost the rotation this week as Verlander nears a return from the 60-day IL and Skubal recovers from a NanoNeedle procedure. Verlander, signed to a one-year, $7.8 million deal, has only made one start this season due to a hip injury, but recent minor league rehab outings show progress. Reports suggest he will need another minor-league start to stretch out before potentially joining a three-game series in Houston on June 15. The pressing question is how long Verlander will remain with Detroit if the team continues to struggle ahead of the MLB trade deadline, with speculation that the Tigers could trade him to restock the farm system or add a younger arm. Bleacher Report’s Kerry Miller considers Verlander a strong trade candidate, noting an “availability meter” near the high end and suggesting teams with postseason potential could bid even if Verlander’s form is inconsistent. The Tigers sit at 27-39, still near the AL Central basement, but adding Verlander and Skubal could provide a late spark. If the team fails to turn things around, selling expiring assets like Verlander could become more likely.
Key Takeaways:
– Verlander’s return and Skubal’s rehab could influence the Tigers’ 2026 season trajectory.
– Trade rumors position Verlander as a high-interest asset for contending teams.
– Detroit remains in the AL Central cellar, heightening the tension between competing this season and rebuilding for the future.
