Reds suddenly look like geniuses after Tarik Skubal arbitration shocker

Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher Hunter Greene (21) reacts | Katie Stratman-Imagn ImagesA few years ago, the Cincinnati Reds decided to hitch their wagon to an emerging young pitcher named Hunter Greene. Following his rookie season in 2022, Cincinnati signed Greene to a six-year, $53 million extension. Based on the payday Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal just received, Nick Krall and the Reds front office made a wise decision.

Skubal won his arbitration case against the Tigers and will take home $32 million in 2026 — a $22 million raise from his 2025 season. Detroit filed at $19 million, but the arbiter ruled in favor of the player, and his decision will likely have huge ramifications moving…