Tigers Gain Extra 2026 MLB Draft Pick Following Competitive Balance Lottery
DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers have been awarded an additional selection in the 2026 MLB Draft as a result of the competitive Balance Lottery, Major League Baseball announced today. The pick will fall between the first and second rounds.
This extra draft pick provides the Tigers with increased flexibility as they navigate the offseason, particularly regarding potential moves surrounding star pitcher Tarik Skubal, who is set to become a free agent after the 2025 season. Speculation has grown that Detroit might consider trading the two-time Cy Young Award winner to bolster their farm system. However, the team’s near-miss in reaching the ALCS last season – falling just one game short – suggests a need to add talent around Skubal with a sense of urgency.
The added draft pick mitigates the potential cost of pursuing free agents who rejected qualifying offers, as the penalty of losing a draft pick becomes less significant with an extra selection already secured. This allows the Tigers to be more aggressive in pursuing impact players this offseason, beyond simply restocking the farm system through trades.
