Tarik Skubal Returns to Mound, Faces Challenges in First Start Post-Surgery

CLEVELAND (AP) — Tarik Skubal made his much-anticipated return to the mound following elbow surgery, but he wasn't in the mood for sentimental reflections. The Detroit Tigers' left-handed pitcher, who has previously been recognized with back-to-back AL Cy Young Awards, emphasized that he is focused solely on performance. “I don’t want to play into that narrative of trying to be back,” Skubal stated on Saturday after his first appearance since April 29. “I need to be better, plain and simple. ‘Just happy to be there’ — that’s a loser mentality to me.”

Skubal's outing lasted 4 2/3 innings in a game where the Tigers struggled offensively, leaving 11 runners on base during a 3-1 defeat to the Cleveland Guardians. After undergoing an innovative procedure on May 6 to remove a loose body from his elbow, Skubal was eager to contribute but acknowledged he showed signs of rust.

Despite not being at his best, the Tigers were relieved to have their ace back on the field, showcasing his signature high-leg delivery. Manager A.J. Hinch noted, “He didn’t execute at the level that we’re used to. But man, it was nice to see him out there.” Skubal, who threw 80 pitches before being lifted, faced a unique situation as the Guardians' lineup shifted early in the game due to injuries to outfielders Angel Martinez and Chase DeLauter.

In his return, Skubal allowed five hits and struck out four batters, but he regretted one crucial pitch that resulted in a two-run homer by Daniel Schneemann in the third inning. “If I want one pitch back, it’s the one to Schneemann,” he reflected, acknowledging the mistake that shifted the momentum in favor of Cleveland.

Skubal's velocity remained intact, with his fastball clocking in the mid-90s (mph), and he expressed satisfaction with his overall process. “My process was really good today,” he commented. “At the end of the day, that’s all I can really control, is me trying to go out there and execute every pitch.” However, he recognized the need for improvement to better support his team in future games.