Los Angeles Dodgers fans are feeling a bit jilted by Tarik Skubal’s comments in a recent podcast appearance.
Skubal was a guest on the “Pardon My Take” podcast and discussed how difficult it was for him to leave the Detroit Tigers via a midseason trade. Skubal even went as far to say that he hopes the Tigers try to bring him back this offseason once he becomes a free agent.
“I would love to play my whole career in Detroit,” Skubal said. “Hopefully those negotiations can pick back up in November once the playoffs are done and we’ll see where that goes. Hopefully they’re involved with everything. I would love to return.”
It was tough to say goodbye to Detroit for Tarik Skubal pic.twitter.com/VUqFWAHDkK
— Pardon My Take (@PardonMyTake) August 7, 2026
Obviously, this is not exactly what Dodgers fans would like to hear from their newest star, and a number of them voiced their annoyance on social media.
buddy stepped In LA and now hes heart broke and wants to be with his EX again
— xChuckWagonx (@realChuckWagonx) August 7, 2026
Yeah, def not buying a Skoobs jersey if thats the vibes, nothing against the guy, and happy he is here; but if he aint stayin I aint payin 😂 Maybe I'll actually get the corner special for now though
— Nick 🧢 (@kungfusteeze3) August 7, 2026
Some things you just don’t say lol it’s a good way for the dodgers faithful to hate you
— Luis Martinez (@MartinezLuis209) August 7, 2026
Skubal came up through the Tigers organization and had spent his entire career there until last week’s trade. He also stands to make as much as $400 million in free agency, and the Tigers are probably not willing to pay him that. He can likely maximize his value or return to Detroit, but not necessarily both.
On the other hand, the Dodgers knew they were trading for a player who may well be a rental. He could certainly still remain there long-term, but it’s unrealistic to think he would not feel a bit sentimental about where he came of age as a ballplayer this soon after a trade.
This is not the first time the Dodgers have dealt with something like this, as Freddie Freeman initially had a tough time moving on from Atlanta. Obviously, those feelings are long gone now. Skubal may wind up being the same way.
