Tarik Skubal Branded 'Traitor' by Furious Fans for Leaving Team USA in WBC

The Detroit Tigers ace is facing backlash from Team USA supporters after ditching the squad midway through the tournament.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal has drawn the ire of Team USA fans after leaving the World Baseball Classic (WBC) team before the bracket stage. Skubal, a two-time American League Cy Young winner, had initially said he would only make one start in the group stage against Great Britain before rejoining the Tigers for spring training. He then gave up a home run on his first pitch, though he settled down after that. Skubal later said he might change his mind and continue with Team USA, but on Monday he announced he would be leaving the team. This has led to a furious backlash from American fans, who have branded Skubal a 'traitor' and questioned his commitment to the national team.

Why it matters

Skubal's decision to leave Team USA has angered fans who feel he is prioritizing his own interests over representing his country. The WBC is meant to be a showcase of national pride, and Skubal's actions are seen as a betrayal of that spirit. This incident highlights the tensions that can arise when star players balance their club commitments with national team duties.

The details

Skubal initially said he would only make one start for Team USA in the group stage against Great Britain before returning to the Tigers for spring training. He gave up a home run on his first pitch in that game, though he settled down after that. Skubal later said he might change his mind and continue with Team USA, but on Monday he announced he would be leaving the team. This has led to a furious backlash from American fans, who have branded Skubal a 'traitor' and questioned his commitment to the national team.

  • Skubal announced before the tournament that he would only make one start for Team USA.
  • Skubal gave up a home run on his first pitch against Great Britain.
  • Skubal initially said he might change his mind and continue with Team USA.
  • On Monday, Skubal announced he would be leaving the Team USA squad.

The players

Tarik Skubal

A two-time American League Cy Young winner and ace pitcher for the Detroit Tigers.

Team USA

The United States national baseball team competing in the World Baseball Classic.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

Tarik Skubal's decision to leave Team USA in the middle of the World Baseball Classic has sparked outrage among American fans, who feel he has betrayed his country's national team. This incident highlights the challenges star players face in balancing their club commitments with representing their nation, and the high expectations placed on them to fully commit to the international tournament.