Tigers' Tarik Skubal Set for WBC Start Saturday

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Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal is set to start for the United States national team in their second game of the World Baseball Classic on Saturday. This will be Skubal's only appearance in the tournament as he prepares to return to the Tigers' camp and make his Opening Day start against the San Diego Padres on March 26.

Why it matters

Skubal's participation in the WBC is an opportunity for the young left-hander to represent his country on the international stage and gain valuable experience facing a different caliber of hitters. His performance in this game could also provide insights into his readiness for the upcoming MLB season.

The details

Skubal, who is slated to be the Tigers' Opening Day starter, will take the mound against a Great Britain squad that does not have a lot of high-end MLB talent. It remains to be seen how long he will be asked to pitch in the contest, but the experience should help him prepare for the start of the regular season.

• Skubal is set to start for the United States against Great Britain on Saturday, March 9, 2026.
• Skubal is scheduled to return to the Tigers' camp after his WBC start and make his Opening Day start against the San Diego Padres on March 26, 2026.

What’s next

After his WBC start, Skubal will return to the Tigers' camp to continue his preparations for the upcoming MLB season and his Opening Day start against the Padres.