Detroit Tigers' Skubal opts out of WBC for spring training game

Pitcher strikes out 7 in exhibition instead of second WBC start

Mar. 14, 2026 at 11:19pm

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Tarik Skubal, a pitcher for the Detroit Tigers, opted to play in a spring training game against the Toronto Blue Jays instead of making a second start for the United States at the World Baseball Classic. Skubal struck out 7 batters in 4 2/3 innings during the Tigers' 6-1 exhibition win.

Why it matters

Skubal's decision to skip the WBC in favor of a spring training game highlights the challenges players face in balancing national team commitments with preparing for the upcoming MLB season. The WBC is an important international tournament, but teams also need their players to be ready for the rigors of the regular season.

The details

Skubal, who had previously made one start for the U.S. team at the WBC, chose to remain with the Tigers for their spring training game against the Blue Jays. In the exhibition, Skubal struck out 7 batters over 4 2/3 innings as the Tigers won 6-1.

  • Skubal struck out 7 batters in 4 2/3 innings on March 14, 2026.

The players

Tarik Skubal

A pitcher for the Detroit Tigers who opted out of a second WBC start to play in a spring training game.

Detroit Tigers

The MLB team Skubal plays for, who he chose to remain with for a spring training exhibition game.

Toronto Blue Jays

The opposing team the Tigers faced in the spring training game Skubal pitched in.

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The takeaway

Skubal's decision highlights the difficult choices players face in balancing national team commitments with preparing for the MLB season. While the WBC is an important tournament, teams need their players to be ready for the grind of the regular season, which can lead to tough decisions like the one Skubal made.