Tigers Ace Tarik Skubal Makes Surprise World Baseball Classic Decision — Detroit Comes First

Tarik Skubal could take the mound multiple times on one of baseball’s biggest international stages this year. Instead, the Detroit Tigers ace is making something very clear before the World Baseball Classic even begins — his priority is not headlines, it is October.

Speaking to reporters during spring training in Lakeland, Fla., Skubal confirmed that his lone WBC outing will come during pool play, although he did not specify exactly which game. He said the plan allows him to represent his country while maintaining a normal preparation routine for the Tigers’ regular season.

“The reason I didn’t announce it sooner was I wanted to keep the momentum on the WBC,” Skubal said, adding that after his start he’ll return to Detroit’s camp and continue ramping up for Opening Day.

Skubal, 29, has been one of baseball’s most dominant pitchers over the past two seasons, earning back-to-back American League Cy Young Awards with the Tigers. He began the 2026 spring with a strong performance, striking out four batters over two scoreless innings in a Grapefruit League game against the Minnesota Twins. 

Team USA’s WBC schedule begins March 6 with round-robin games in Houston’s Daikin Park. Skubal is expected to take the mound as part of the USA rotation in a game slated for March 7, when the Americans face Great Britain. 

After that start, Skubal says he’ll head back to Tigers camp with the season opener just weeks away. Detroit is set to begin the regular season on March 26 in San Diego. Skubal’s return to his club ahead of the season underlines his commitment to being fully prepared for the long MLB campaign. 

Skubal also indicated he’d consider being part of Team USA later in the WBC, but only as a spectator if the team reaches the finals, showing his desire to support his teammates even if he isn’t pitching. 

By choosing a short WBC stint, Skubal balances the pride of pitching for his country with the practical need to protect his health and readiness for Detroit, a strategy that reflects both personal and professional priorities as the new season approaches. 

Source: MLB.com

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