Home / Sports / Skubal's WBC Debut: One Start Only
Skubal's WBC Debut: One Start Only
24 Feb
Summary
- Skubal plans only one WBC start before rejoining the Tigers.
- He won't be available for potential elimination games.
- US team boasts strong pitching despite Skubal's limited availability.
Tarik Skubal, a two-time defending Cy Young Award winner, is set to debut in the World Baseball Classic for the U.S. next month. However, his participation comes with specific conditions.
Skubal has stated his intention to make only a single start during the WBC group play, which commences on March 5. Following this appearance, he plans to rejoin the Detroit Tigers and will not be available for any potential elimination-round games.
His sole scheduled start for the U.S. is reportedly on March 7 against Great Britain. Skubal expressed a desire to support the team as a spectator if they advance to the finals, indicating his limited availability is a strategic choice.
This decision poses a challenge for the United States, aiming for their first WBC title since 2017. Skubal has been exceptionally dominant over the past two seasons, with a combined 31 wins and an ERA below 2.40. His career with the Tigers shows a 54-37 record and a 3.08 ERA in 137 appearances.
Despite Skubal's restricted involvement, the American team's pitching staff remains formidable. It includes notable talents such as 2025 Cy Young winner Paul Skenes and 2025 All-Stars Logan Webb, Joe Ryan, and Matthew Boyd. The U.S. is in Group B, opening their campaign against Brazil on March 6 in Houston. Other group opponents include Great Britain, Italy, and Mexico. The WBC championship game is scheduled for March 17 in Miami.
