Tigers Facing Decision After Tarik Skubal News
The Detroit Tigers have struggled this season, posting a 20-30 record that sits well below .500. Injuries to the pitching staff, inconsistent power production from key veterans, and underwhelming performances from young talent have all contributed to the disappointing start.
Defensive issues have only added to the problems, as sloppy infield play and costly errors have extended innings and put more pressure on the pitching staff.
The Tigers have also been without left-handed ace Tarik Skubal for more than two weeks after he experienced discomfort before a start and was diagnosed with loose bodies, or bone chips, in his elbow.
Before suffering the injury, Skubal was off to another strong start this season. In seven appearances, the Tigers ace posted a 2.70 ERA, 0.95 WHIP and 45 strikeouts across 43 1/3 innings pitched.
The encouraging news for Detroit is that Skubal is making significant progress and is expected to need only a rehab start or simulated game before returning from the 15-day injured list.
His return could also force the Tigers into a decision regarding their rotation. Detroit recently gave Drew Anderson a spot start, and he responded with a scoreless outing.
With Anderson pitching well, the Tigers could consider using a six-man rotation upon Skubal's return to give the left-hander an extra day of rest if needed while easing him back into action.
Tarik Skubal threw 35 pitches this morning in his latest bullpen session. He said he ramped up the intensity like a simulated start, including a target velocity at the end, and felt great. He confirmed he will pitch a rehab start or sim game at some point before return from IL. https://t.co/q39LsOFwPl
— Jason Beck (@beckjason) May 21, 2026
This gives the Tigers additional time to decide when Skubal is ready to return to the mound. Entering his seventh season in Detroit, the 29-year-old has already built an impressive résumé.
Skubal is a two-time Cy Young Award winner, claiming the honor in back-to-back seasons in 2024 and 2025, while also earning two All-Star selections, two ERA titles and a pitching Triple Crown.
He has firmly established himself as one of the top pitchers in Major League Baseball. Drafted in 2017, Skubal is currently playing on a one-year, $32 million contract with the Tigers for the 2026 season.
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This story was originally published May 21, 2026 at 2:34 PM.