Valdez's Fast Start Buoys Tigers as Skubal Talks Drag

Early gains from Detroit's $115 million lefty are prompting a closer look at thin rotation depth.

Overview

Framber Valdez, signed to a three-year, $115 million deal, has allowed one run over 12 innings with 10 strikeouts and three walks in two Detroit wins.
Manager A. J. Hinch said he may separate Tarik Skubal and Valdez in the rotation to create better balance.
Negotiations on a Skubal extension remain distant, with reporting placing his asking price near $250 million.
Analysts project Skubal to seek about $40 million per year in free agency, and he owns a 2.55 ERA through three starts despite scant run support.
Detroit is weighing trade options to shore up durability concerns with Jack Flaherty, Justin Verlander's hip and age, and Keider Montero's inconsistency, with Kyle Freeland cited as a possible target.