Tigers' Skubal to pitch one game in World Baseball Classic

Pitcher limits participation to protect contract year with Detroit

Feb. 23, 2026 at 9:10pm

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Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal will only make one start for Team USA in the upcoming 2026 World Baseball Classic, opting to limit his participation to protect his contract year with the Tigers. Skubal, who is represented by agent Scott Boras, is entering the final season of team control and is expected to command a record-breaking contract as a free agent next offseason.

Why it matters

Skubal's decision to limit his World Baseball Classic participation highlights the delicate balance between representing one's country and protecting one's professional interests, especially for players entering a contract year. As one of the top pitchers in baseball, Skubal's limited involvement is a blow to the USA's pitching staff, but it underscores the growing influence of player agents like Scott Boras in managing their clients' workloads and contract negotiations.

The details

Skubal told reporters that he will only make one start for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic pools, and then will be shut down, potentially returning to watch the finals if the USA makes it that far. The 26-year-old left-hander said he is trying to balance his desire to pitch for his country with the need to prepare for the upcoming season with the Tigers, who hold their spring training in Lakeland, Florida.

  • Skubal will make one start for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic pool rounds.
  • Skubal may return to watch the World Baseball Classic finals, but only as a "fan."

The players

Tarik Skubal

A 26-year-old left-handed pitcher for the Detroit Tigers who is entering the final season of team control and is expected to command a record-breaking contract as a free agent next offseason.

Scott Boras

Skubal's agent, who has made no bones about his client's prospects on the free agent market, comparing Skubal's back-to-back Cy Young awards to the rarity of men walking on the moon.

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What they’re saying

“I'm trying to do both things, trying to pitch for Team USA but I understand the need to be here with these guys and get ready for the season. I think it's kind of the best of both worlds in that aspect, and I'm grateful they took me in that capacity.”

— Tarik Skubal

“If they go to the finals, I think I'm going to try and lobby to just go watch and be with the guys.”

— Tarik Skubal

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Skubal's decision to limit his World Baseball Classic participation highlights the growing influence of player agents in managing their clients' workloads and contract negotiations, especially for top-tier players entering a contract year. While his absence is a blow to the USA's pitching staff, it underscores the delicate balance between national team commitments and protecting one's professional interests.