Tigers' Skubal won't make another WBC start

Pitcher cites spring training plan and contract stakes as factors in decision

Mar. 10, 2026 at 6:22pm

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Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal, a two-time AL Cy Young Award winner, has decided not to make another start for the United States in the World Baseball Classic. Skubal said he was surprised by how emotional pitching for his country made him, but ultimately decided to stick to his original spring training plan and avoid any potential risks to his upcoming contract negotiations.

Why it matters

Skubal is eligible for free agency after this season and is expected to command a lucrative, nine-figure contract. His decision not to pitch again in the WBC reflects the high stakes involved in protecting his health and preparation for the upcoming MLB season.

The details

Skubal gave up a home run on his first pitch for the U.S. team on Saturday, but then allowed just one single while striking out five in three innings of a 9-1 victory over Britain. He said he consulted with the Tigers, his agent, and his teammates before deciding not to make another WBC start, with the "resounding message" being to focus on his regular spring training schedule.

  • Skubal made one start for the U.S. team on Saturday, March 11, 2026.
  • Skubal is expected to become a free agent after the 2026 MLB season.

The players

Tarik Skubal

A two-time AL Cy Young Award winner and ace of the Detroit Tigers pitching staff.

A.J. Hinch

The manager of the Detroit Tigers.

Scott Boras

Skubal's agent who represents him in contract negotiations.

Mark DeRosa

The manager of the United States team in the World Baseball Classic.

Nate Eaton

A player for Britain's national team who hit a home run off Skubal in their WBC matchup.

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What they’re saying

“My spring training start days were scripted out in January with the original plan being starting and then being done. And obviously when I got here my emotions kind of changed a little bit, my thought process changed a little bit and tried to make it work but just couldn't. And I hate it, but it's all right.”

— Tarik Skubal, Detroit Tigers Pitcher

“I know what's at stake for him. I'm over the moon he decided to show in the first place for us — I really am — and take the ball for us. I think it meant a lot to a lot of guys in that room. We know where his heart is. If he was in a different situation, he wouldn't be leaving.”

— Mark DeRosa, United States WBC Team Manager

What’s next

Skubal said he will make the trip from Tigers spring training in Florida to Miami to be with the U.S. team if they advance to the WBC semifinals and finals.

The takeaway

Skubal's decision highlights the difficult balance elite MLB players must strike between representing their country in international tournaments and prioritizing their own contract and career considerations. His commitment to the WBC despite ultimately withdrawing shows his patriotism, but also underscores the high stakes involved in his upcoming free agency.