Tarik Skubal Blasted as 'Quitter' for Limited WBC Commitment

Team USA fans outraged over Cy Young winner's plan to pitch just once in World Baseball Classic

Mar. 2, 2026 at 5:55pm

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Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal, a two-time American League Cy Young Award winner, has drawn the ire of Team USA fans for his limited commitment to the World Baseball Classic. Skubal is slated to start just one game against Great Britain, throwing around 55 pitches, before returning to Tigers spring training, leading to accusations that he is a "quitter" and not taking the tournament seriously.

Why it matters

Skubal's decision to pitch only once in the WBC has sparked outrage among Team USA fans who expected the star pitcher to be a key part of the American squad's quest for the title. His limited participation is seen as a betrayal of the national team and a blow to the legitimacy of the tournament.

The details

Skubal, who is entering a contract year with the Tigers, had initially agreed to join Team USA's pitching staff alongside fellow Cy Young winner Paul Skenes of the Pittsburgh Pirates. However, the current plan is for Skubal to start against Great Britain and throw around 55 pitches before returning to the Tigers, drawing heavy criticism from fans who feel he is wasting a roster spot and not fully committing to the WBC.

  • Skubal is scheduled to start Team USA's second game against Great Britain.

The players

Tarik Skubal

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

Paul Skenes

A Cy Young winner with the Pittsburgh Pirates who is also part of Team USA's pitching staff for the WBC.

Clayton Kershaw

A 37-year-old veteran pitcher who fans believe could have given more innings than Skubal against weaker opponents in the WBC.

Logan Webb

The pitcher scheduled to start the opening game for Team USA against Brazil in the WBC.

Nolan McLean

A 24-year-old pitcher scheduled to start the final group stage game for Team USA against Italy in the WBC.

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What they’re saying

“If you don't want to commit to the WBC, that's fine. Don't show up at all! But this toe in the water and bail approach is deeply unserious and bad for the legitimacy of the tournament as a whole.”

— Matthew Gross, Red Sox reporter

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

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.