Tigers' Skubal rethinks World Baseball Classic plans after emotional US debut

Detroit ace had previously planned to make just one start for Team USA before returning to spring training.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal is reconsidering his plans to only make one start for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic after an emotional outing in their 9-1 win over Britain. Skubal, who has won the last two AL Cy Young Awards, said the experience has changed his mindset and he will have discussions with his agent and the Tigers to determine his next steps.

Why it matters

Skubal's participation in the WBC is significant as he is one of the top pitchers in baseball and a key part of the Detroit Tigers' rotation. His decision to potentially pitch more for Team USA could impact the Tigers' spring training plans and his preparation for the upcoming MLB season.

The details

Skubal gave up a home run on his first pitch but then allowed just one single while striking out five in three innings. He said the experience has been incredibly emotional and is now unsure if he will stick to his original plan of making just one start for Team USA. Skubal is set to become a free agent after this season and is expected to command a huge contract next winter, adding to the complexity of his decision.

  • Skubal made his first start for Team USA on Saturday, March 9, 2026.
  • The US team is set to face Mexico on Monday, March 11, 2026.

The players

Tarik Skubal

A Detroit Tigers pitcher who has won the last two American League Cy Young Awards.

A.J. Hinch

The manager of the Detroit Tigers.

Scott Boras

Tarik Skubal's agent.

Nate Eaton

A player for the British national baseball team who hit a home run off Skubal in the first inning.

Paul Skenes

The reigning National League Cy Young Award winner who is scheduled to start for the US team against Mexico.

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What they’re saying

“I didn't expect these types of emotions to run through my brain or my thoughts to differ. I was pretty committed to making a start and getting back to camp. Things have changed, obviously. That's why I'm going to have some conversations and try to figure out a plan for me. But yeah, I don't know either way.”

— Tarik Skubal, Detroit Tigers pitcher

“I don't think anything's been determined. I think he's incredibly emotional about the experience. It's a difficult time that weighs heavily on players because they want to do it all.”

— A.J. Hinch, Detroit Tigers manager (MLB.com)

“They've been extremely supportive of everything. They totally get what's going on with my situation — it's unique. I've had these discussions with people, and most of it is, they're extremely supportive of me being here in the first place. And I've got a ton of respect for that. But it's just hard. When you get in these environments, and you get this team, it's hard to walk away from that.”

— Tarik Skubal, Detroit Tigers pitcher

What’s next

The US team is set to face Mexico on Monday, March 11, 2026, with reigning NL Cy Young Award winner Paul Skenes on the mound. Skubal will continue discussions with his agent and the Tigers to determine his plans for the remainder of the World Baseball Classic.

The takeaway

Skubal's emotional experience representing Team USA in the World Baseball Classic has led him to reconsider his initial plan to make just one start, highlighting the pull of international competition and the difficult decisions top MLB players face when balancing their national team duties with their professional obligations.