Editorial Staff
In a highly anticipated matchup, the Detroit Tigers are set to take on the Pittsburgh Pirates, marking the debut of their star pitcher for the 2024 season.
Tatik Skubal, the Tigers’ formidable left-handed pitcher, is poised to lead the charge after an impressive resurgence in the latter half of the previous year. Skubal’s return to form was nothing short of spectacular following his recovery from flexor tendon surgery on his throwing arm, which sidelined him until just before the All-Star break in the previous season.
Upon his return, Skubal wasted no time in showcasing his undeniable talent, hinting at Cy Young’s potential. Despite finishing with a 7-3 record and a commendable 2.80 ERA in 15 starts, his true prowess often transcended mere statistics. Notably, Skubal demonstrated exceptional control, issuing only 14 walks throughout his appearances. However, occasional turbulent innings marred some of his outings, a minor blemish on an otherwise stellar performance.
In his initial comeback game, Skubal exhibited dominance, pitching four scoreless innings, and striking out six batters while conceding neither hits nor walks. Although he encountered setbacks, such as allowing multiple runs in subsequent games, he swiftly regained his momentum. During a stretch from July 18 to Aug. 11, Skubal encountered some rough patches, yielding 15 earned runs, yet he also delivered innings of flawless pitching, underlining his resilience and capability.
As the Tigers bid farewell to Eduardo Rodriguez in free agency, Skubal assumes the mantle of the team’s undisputed ace. However, his success hinges on his ability to maintain peak performance and, crucially, avoid injury—a challenge he has faced in the past.
To contend for the prestigious Cy Young award, Skubal must demonstrate consistency and endurance, traits he exhibited towards the end of the previous season. While his career-high of 149⅓ innings pitched falls short of recent Cy Young winners’ totals, notably Gerrit Cole’s 209 and Blake Snell’s 180 innings in the previous year, Skubal’s potential remains undeniable. Though 2024 may not be his definitive year for Cy Young contention, his ascension to the ranks of elite pitchers could significantly bolster the Tigers’ playoff aspirations.
The stage is set for Skubal to resume his quest for greatness as he takes the mound in Bradenton, Florida, on Wednesday afternoon, igniting hopes for Tigers fans everywhere.