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Listen in the appSpring training storylines are heating up for the Detroit Tigers with just 16 days until 2026 Opening Day. On "Days of Roar," Evan Petzold and Chris Brown react to Tarik Skubal shutting down his participation for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic after one start and Justin Verlander hinting that this year could be his final season. We also break down Kevin McGonigle becoming an international sensation after hitting a 461-foot home run in the Dominican Republic — and provide an update about his chances of making the Opening Day roster. We debate other key roster questions: A left-hander like Enmanuel De Jesus or a right-hander like Burch Smith for the final bullpen spot; Casey Mize or Drew Anderson for the final rotation spot, with the other moving to the bullpen; Parker Meadows or Wenceel Pérez if McGonigle forces his way into the position player group, with the other landing in Triple-A Toledo. Bob Nightengale — USA TODAY Sports MLB columnist and insider — joins the show to discuss Skubal's contract situation. Have the Tigers offered their homegrown ace a long-term extension in the past 16 months? Nightengale has the answer, plus other information. To wrap up, we take a deep dive into the prospects selected by the Tigers for MLB's Spring Breakout showcase, including youngsters Cris Rodriguez, Jordan Yost and Michael Oliveto.
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Bonus: Kevin McGonigle era begins with Detroit Tigers' Opening Day win
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"Tarik Skubal contract update; Detroit Tigers roster battles heat up in camp" is an episode of Days of Roar: A Free Press Sports Detroit Tigers Podcast. Runtime 1 hr 0 min. Published March 10, 2026. Hit play above to stream it here, or open the free Spot Sports app for background play and offline downloads.