BREAKING: The Detroit Tigers have confirmed the extension of manager A.J. Hinch‘s contract during the 2025 season, as general manager Scott Harris expressed firm intentions to secure ace pitcher Tarik Skubal to a long-term deal. This urgent announcement comes just days after the Tigers’ heartbreaking 3-2 loss in 15 innings against Seattle in Game 5 of the AL Division Series, marking the end of their season.
During a press conference on Monday morning, Harris emphasized the team’s commitment to providing the necessary resources to retain Skubal, who recently won the AL Cy Young Award and was recognized as the league’s pitching Triple Crown winner in 2024. With an impressive 2.21 ERA and a career-high 241 strikeouts this season, Skubal is poised to become a highly sought-after free agent following the 2026 season.
“I wish we weren’t here right now,” Harris remarked, reflecting on the team’s disappointing postseason exit. “I wish we were in Toronto, preparing for Game 2 of the ALCS.” This statement underscores the urgency of the Tigers’ situation as they transition from a season that began with high hopes but faltered dramatically in September.
Harris confirmed that he approached Hinch regarding the contract extension during the current season, marking a significant milestone as this is the second extension for Hinch since he joined the Tigers. While specific details about the contract length remain undisclosed, Harris praised Hinch as one of the best managers in baseball, stating, “We want him to be here as long as he’s willing to be here.”
As for Skubal, the organization recognizes that retaining him will require substantial financial investment. Team owner Chris Ilitch is expected to back this endeavor, with Harris expressing confidence that Ilitch will allocate the necessary funds to secure Skubal’s future with the Tigers. “I have no concerns about that,” Harris stated.
However, the Tigers are also grappling with questions about their late-season collapse, which saw them relinquish the largest lead in division or league history. Harris faced inquiries about why the team struggled offensively in the postseason and acknowledged the need for improvement. “I deserve to get those questions and we deserve the negative narrative that is swirling around this team,” he said.
With the offseason approaching, the Tigers must address these challenges head-on while keeping their eyes on the future. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the team works to solidify its roster and make critical decisions that could define the upcoming seasons.
Stay tuned for the latest developments as the Tigers navigate this pivotal moment in their franchise history.