Tarik Skubal returns just in time for Tigers’ AL Central push and October playoff dreams
The Detroit Tigers have received a timely boost as they navigate the final stretch of the season: their ace, Tarik Skubal, is back on the mound. The 2022 American League Cy Young award winner is set to make his return on Thursday against the Cleveland Guardians, following a brief scare in his last outing when he exited early due to tightness in his left side.
Injury Scare Quickly Alleviated
The concern was palpable last Friday when Skubal left the game in Miami after just 45 pitches during the fourth inning. With Detroit enjoying a comfortable lead in the AL Central, the prospect of a lingering injury raised alarms about both Skubal’s season and the Tigers’ playoff ambitions. However, after undergoing clean scans and completing a worry-free bullpen session on Monday, those fears have subsided—for now.
Skubal expressed relief, telling reporters he threw with full intensity during his session, even pushing himself harder than usual without any signs of discomfort. “It’s one of those weird things,” he remarked, downplaying the incident as a minor setback. Manager A.J. Hinch shared his optimism, noting that Skubal’s workout “looked normal and strong,” and the team anticipates he will remain on schedule.
The Tigers have historically been cautious with their star pitcher, but Skubal is eager to contribute. With the postseason on the horizon, the team is unwilling to risk unnecessary downtime, especially when their rotation relies heavily on his elite performance.
Division Race Heating Up
Despite a loss to Cleveland on Tuesday, the Tigers maintain their position atop the AL Central, poised to secure the division title. Skubal conveyed his enthusiasm for the potential celebration, stating, “You want to do it at home in front of your fans,” while playfully referencing the customary “clubhouse destruction” that follows a champagne-soaked victory.
The significance of Skubal’s return extends beyond the standings; it represents a strategic advantage as the Tigers aim to set a strong tone heading into October. A healthy Skubal not only solidifies their lead but also enhances their chances of making a substantial playoff run.
The Matchup to Watch
Thursday’s matchup will feature Skubal against Guardians right-hander Gavin Williams, who has quietly established himself with a 10-5 record and a 3.16 ERA this season. This duel showcases a clash between one of baseball’s premier strikeout artists and a promising young arm eager to make his mark in high-pressure situations.
As both teams vie for postseason positioning, this late-September showdown transcends the ordinary—it serves as a preview of the intense battles likely to unfold in October.
Looking Ahead for Detroit
For the Tigers, the primary focus remains on keeping Skubal healthy. He anchors a rotation that has performed admirably to fend off competitors but will need to elevate its game in the postseason. If Skubal can replicate his Cy Young form, the Tigers won’t just be division favorites; they could emerge as one of the biggest sleeper teams in the playoffs, ready to make an unexpected impact.
