Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal made his season debut Saturday after elbow surgery, allowing three runs over 4⅔ innings in a 3-1 loss to the Cleveland Guardians. The two-time Cy Young winner threw 80 pitches and struck out four while showing strong velocity on his fastball.
Skubal last pitched in the majors on April 29 and underwent surgery 38 days before his return to remove a loose body from his left elbow using a nanoscope. He faced jeers from Guardians fans at Progressive Field but maintained composure through defensive miscues and traffic on the bases in each of his first four innings.
The right-hander allowed five hits, including a two-run homer to Daniel Schneemann on an 0-2 count, and issued one walk. His four-seam fastball averaged 97.8 mph, above his season mark of 96.6 mph, though velocity dipped in the fifth inning.
Manager A.J. Hinch removed Skubal after 74 pitches in the fifth. Spencer Torkelson noted the different vibe in the clubhouse when Skubal pitches. His next start is scheduled for next Friday against the White Sox at Comerica Park.
