Tarik Skubal, the Detroit Tigers' ace and back-to-back AL Cy Young winner, is rethinking his plan to make just one start in the 2026 World Baseball Classic after his debut for Team USA. The 29-year-old pitcher impressed in a 9-1 victory over Great Britain, allowing one run in three innings. He plans to decide in the next few days after discussions with his team, agent, and family.
In Houston at Daikin Park, Tarik Skubal made his Team USA debut on Saturday during Pool B play of the 2026 World Baseball Classic. The United States defeated Great Britain 9-1, improving to 2-0 in the tournament and outscoring opponents 24-6 so far. Skubal, entering his final season before 2026 free agency, was originally scheduled for one start before returning to the Tigers' spring training to prepare for Opening Day on March 26 in San Diego.
Skubal surrendered a leadoff home run to Nate Eaton on his first pitch but then settled in, striking out five batters and allowing just one more hit—an infield single—over three innings. He threw 41 pitches, below his planned limit of 50-55, with his fastball averaging nearly 97 mph. "My stuff felt sharp, my arm felt good," Skubal said afterward.
The experience has left Skubal emotional and reconsidering his departure. "This is gonna be one of the tougher decisions I've made in my career so far," he told reporters. "It just changes your perspective a little bit... how proud I am to be an American and go out there and pitch and compete." He added, "I didn't expect these types of emotions to run through my brain... Things have changed, obviously."
Tigers manager A.J. Hinch acknowledged the pitcher's feelings, saying, "He's incredibly emotional about the experience... I talked to him briefly and let him talk through his emotions." Hinch expects further discussions after Skubal rests. Team USA first baseman Bryce Harper supported Skubal, stating, "He's got to do what's best for himself and his career... I respect it."
A second start could align with quarterfinals on March 13 or the championship on March 17, but it risks disrupting Skubal's buildup, especially after his 2025 season of 241 strikeouts and a 2.21 ERA. His agent, Scott Boras, and the Tigers are likely to weigh injury risks. Skubal's teammates on both sides have expressed understanding of his unique position. Team USA faces Mexico on Monday, with Paul Skenes starting.
