Detroit Tigers general manager Scott Harris announced he extended manager A.J. Hinch's contract during the 2025 season and pledged ownership will provide necessary resources to sign ace Tarik Skubal to a long-term deal. The Tigers' season ended last week with a 3-2, 15-inning loss to Seattle in Game 5 of the AL Division Series.

Harris and Hinch held a news conference Monday morning to discuss the season and the team's future plans. Harris declined to specify the length of Hinch's extension but emphasized his value to the organization.

"He's one of the best managers in the game," Harris said.

This marks the second time Harris has extended Hinch's contract, following a long-term deal in 2023. Hinch is entering his fifth season as Tigers manager.

"We want him to be here as long as he's willing to be here," Harris said. "I want to work with him as long as I can possibly work with him."

The Tigers face a significant financial decision regarding Skubal, who won the AL Cy Young Award and pitching Triple Crown in 2024. The 28-year-old left-hander posted a career-low 2.21 ERA with a career-high 241 strikeouts.

"He's the best pitcher in baseball," Harris said. "He's hopefully going to win a second Cy Young."

Skubal signed a $10.15 million, one-year contract last offseason and will become a free agent after the 2026 season. Harris insisted team owner Chris Ilitch will support the necessary payroll to retain Skubal long-term.

"I have no concerns about that," Harris said.

Harris acknowledged criticism of the team's September collapse after holding baseball's best record for much of the season. Detroit blew the biggest lead in division or league history and struggled offensively in the postseason.

"I deserve to get those questions and we deserve the negative narrative that is swirling around this team," he said.

Harris admitted questions about his inactivity at the trade deadline were fair, particularly regarding offensive additions.

"Maybe we should've," he said.