Source: SI.com
Summary
Tarik Skubal is set to face the Detroit Tigers for the first time since being traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers. Skubal, who played for the Tigers since his 2020 debut, said he expects emotions to arise but plans to focus on pitching. He is 8-7 with a 2.91 ERA this season and 1-2 with a 3.38 ERA in four starts for the Dodgers. The Tigers will start Drew Anderson against Skubal in the series opener.
Our Reading
The game followed a familiar script.
Skubal’s return to Detroit is emotional, but he says he’ll focus on baseball.
He’s 1-2 with the Dodgers, but still a solid starter.
The Tigers are leaning on Anderson, a mid-rotation guy.
It’s a homecoming, but the script is already written.
Author: Evan Null
Skubal’s Emotional Return
Tarik Skubal is set to face the Tigers for the first time since being traded to the Dodgers. He has been with the Tigers since 2020 and has no other MLB experience. The trade sent him to the World Series champions. Skubal says he expects emotions to come, but he’s focused on pitching.
Skubal’s Performance
This season, Skubal is 8-7 with a 2.91 ERA. In four starts for the Dodgers, he’s 1-2 with a 3.38 ERA. His most recent start was a 4-3 win over Pittsburgh, where he struck out 11 in seven innings. He’s trying to adjust quickly to his new team and new city.
Dodgers’ Confidence in Skubal
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said he believes Skubal has the right temperament to handle the emotions of his return. Roberts said Skubal is all in wherever he is. He expects Skubal to engage with teammates and coaches. Roberts said he’s fortunate to have Skubal on the team.
Skubal’s Feelings About Detroit
Skubal said he’s sure it will be emotional to return to Detroit because of the history. He’s had less than a month to adjust to Los Angeles before the game. He said he’ll handle the emotions after the game. He plans to focus on competing and doing what he does well.
Tigers’ Starter
The Tigers are expected to start Drew Anderson against Skubal. Anderson is 4-5 with a 4.09 ERA this season. He’s a mid-rotation pitcher. The game is the first of a three-game series. Fans will be watching to see how Skubal handles the emotional return.
