Riley Greene Demands Higher Salary Than Tarik Skubal To Extend Contract With Detroit Tigers, Otherwise He Will Join New York Yankees, CEO Christopher Ilitch Responds With 10 Words That Shock Everyone!
By [Your Name], July 25, 2025
In a stunning twist that has Detroit Tigers fans on edge, star outfielder Riley Greene is reportedly demanding a contract extension that would make him the highest-paid player on the team—surpassing ace pitcher Tarik Skubal. The news broke late Wednesday evening via an insider source close to the negotiations, with rumors that Greene is considering a high-profile move to the New York Yankees if his demands are not met.
According to multiple reports, Greene, 24, is seeking a long-term deal north of $150 million, which would eclipse Skubal’s recent five-year, $110 million extension signed earlier this season. The center fielder believes his contributions both offensively and defensively, along with his leadership in the clubhouse, justify a larger payday.
Greene: “I Know My Worth”
In a brief media appearance on Thursday morning, Greene didn’t shy away from addressing the reports.
“I love Detroit, I love our fans, and I’ve given everything to this team. But I know my worth. I want to stay here—but not if I’m undervalued,” Greene said.
Drafted fifth overall in 2019, Greene has been a cornerstone of the Tigers’ rebuilding efforts. In 2024, he slashed .296/.373/.489 with 24 home runs and 89 RBIs—numbers that place him among the top young outfielders in the league. His defense has also been stellar, with multiple highlight-reel catches that have saved crucial runs.
Comparisons with Tarik Skubal are inevitable. Skubal has emerged as Detroit’s ace, posting a 2.85 ERA last season and finishing second in AL Cy Young voting. The team locked him in early, betting on his continued rise. Greene, however, seems to believe his all-around value should command a higher figure.
The Yankees Factor
What’s raised eyebrows even more is Greene’s reported interest in joining the New York Yankees, should negotiations with the Tigers fall through. Sources say preliminary conversations have already taken place between Greene’s agent and the Yankees’ front office.
New York is known for aggressively pursuing top-tier talent, and with outfield uncertainty looming after Giancarlo Stanton’s decline and injury issues, Greene could fit seamlessly into their long-term plans.
Yankees general manager Brian Cashman declined to comment directly but noted in a radio interview, “We’re always looking for dynamic, young talent who can perform in October.”
The Tigers’ Dilemma
Detroit’s front office now finds itself at a crossroads. Do they meet Greene’s salary demands and risk creating a salary hierarchy that could alienate other players—or do they stick to their payroll philosophy and potentially lose one of their most exciting stars?
Fans have taken to social media, with #PayGreeneNow trending on X (formerly Twitter) in Detroit by Thursday afternoon.
“It’s simple,” wrote one fan. “You don’t let your best hitter walk to the Yankees. PERIOD.”
CEO Ilitch Responds
In perhaps the most shocking development, Tigers CEO Christopher Ilitch made a rare public statement outside Comerica Park when approached by reporters Thursday evening.
With a calm yet serious demeanor, Ilitch responded:
“We won’t be held hostage—but we value Greene deeply.”
The 10-word remark quickly went viral, as media and fans dissected every syllable. Some interpret it as a sign that the Tigers won’t bow to Greene’s salary demands. Others view it as a calculated move to keep negotiations private and under control.
What’s Next?
With the trade deadline just a week away, the timing of Greene’s demands adds even more tension. If an extension isn’t reached soon, the Tigers may be forced to explore trade options—though moving a franchise player midseason is a move that could deeply divide the fanbase.
One thing is clear: the next few weeks will be critical not just for Riley Greene’s future, but for the direction of the entire Tigers organization.
Stay tuned.
