Cameron Maybin’s prediction of Tarik Skubal signing with the New York Yankees understandably ruffled some feathers among Detroit Tigers fans.
Tigers fans responded to Maybin’s post on X (formerly Twitter) with their anger and frustration about the former Tigers outfielder’s prediction that Skubal would sign with the Yankees if the Tigers “screw this up.”
Skubal is a heavy favorite to win his second straight Cy Young Award and started the All-Star Game for the American League.
But he will be a free agent after the 2026 season, and although there may be a lockout before the start of the 2027 season, Maybin floated the idea of Skubal joining the Yankees if Detroit doesn’t lock him in.
What Did Cameron Maybin Say About Tarik Skubal Joining The Yankees?
Maybin was shooting from the hip when he posted his prediction of Skubal going to New York.
“If the Tigers screw this up, there’s only one place Skubal belongs…..rocking pinstripes in the Bronx!” Maybin shared on X (formerly Twitter). “Aura. Moxie. Straight bulldog. If you think he’s filthy now? Just wait ‘til he’s toeing the rubber in October at Yankee Stadium. I dare you.
“I only said what I said because I know the competitor he is. From my experience, guys like him take it to another level when they’re surrounded by history, expectation, and the will to win. He wants those big moments. He thrives in them.”
Unlike some of their other American League Central division rivals, the Tigers have not had a hard time doling out large contracts to elite players. Jack Flaherty (two years, $25 million) and Gleyber Torres (one-year, $15 million) are two marquee free agents that just signed last year.
Skubal is going to command far greater dollars, as an elite starting pitcher who is likely to be a two-time Cy Young recipient — especially if he can sign before the potential 2027 lockout. But Detroit has the best record in baseball this season and made the playoffs last year, which means it has a serious window to win for the first time in about two decades.
With Detroit’s history, and its penchant to sign huge free agent contracts — it gave out $200+ million to both Miguel Cabrera and Prince Fielder last decade — it seems unlikely the Tigers would let him leave.
What Did Tigers Fans Say In Response To Cameron Maybin?
Tigers fans came out in droves to speak out in opposition of Maybin’s post.
“I speak for all of Detroit, we don’t claim you anymore,” Detroit sports fan Steven Bolek responded on X. “I am mad for you putting those thoughts into the universe. Used to love watching you play though.”
Even non-Tigers fans were upset by Maybin’s comments.
“That dude ain’t ever going to play for the Yankees,” @MarkRoberts20805 said in response. “He’s going to get paid by the tigers and be a legend there.”
Maybin clarified his remarks and addressed upset Tigers fans. The MLB Network analyst gave a very clear reminder of his “if the Tigers screw this up” clause.
“A lot of people are mad, and yeah of course I’d love for the Tigers to lock him up for life,” Maybin tweeted. “But if they fumble this, he wouldn’t just survive in the Bronx. He would welcome the challenge and dominate it.”
Tigers Fans Livid Over Cameron Maybin’s Tarik Skubal Statements