Tarik Skubal started Team USA’s game against Team Great Britain in the World Baseball Classic on Saturday. The Detroit Tigers star turned in three innings of one-run baseball in a 9-1 victory. The outing was expected to be Skubal’s one and only start of the WBC, but now there is seemingly a chance that he may pitch again in the tournament.
During Saturday’s broadcast, Skubal decided not to provide a response when asked if he’d consider pitching in the WBC again, via Talkin’ Baseball.
“That’s a tough question right now,” Skubal said. “Yeah, I probably won’t answer that one right now.”
Skubal did not shut down the idea, however. On Sunday, Tigers manager AJ Hinch was asked about the situation, via Jason Beck.
“I don’t think anything’s been determined,” Hinch said. “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. I talked to him briefly and kind of let him talk through his emotions and let him talk through what’s on his mind. We agreed to talk again as things settled down a little bit and he got a good night’s sleep.
“He’ll wake up and get a good work day in. I don’t know how it all ends, but I saw the interview and I saw the emotion and I know the human and I know that everything matters to him. He’s in a tough spot to accomplish everything.”
Skubal will need to make a decision soon. The Tigers are in an awkward spot, as it is ultimately Skubal’s decision. There isn’t much Detroit can do. Sure, Hinch and the Tigers can obviously talk through the situation with Skubal, but in the end they are waiting on the pitcher to make a final decision.
Will Tarik Skubal Pitch in Another WBC Game?
© Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images
Team USA’s roster is extremely talented. They have more than enough depth to compete for a championship with or without Skubal. Having Skubal on the roster would obviously boost their chances, though. The two-time reigning Cy Young winner is the best pitcher in the sport right now.
Team Japan and Team Dominican Republic are the ball clubs with the best chances of upsetting Team USA in the WBC. Having Skubal available to pitch against one of those teams would play a crucial role in determining the outcome of a potential matchup between the teams.
Meanwhile, the Tigers are moving forward during spring training. They will surely have Skubal’s back regardless of his decision, but there is not much they can do right now.
Related: Tarik Skubal News Announced Ahead of World Baseball Classic
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Mar 8, 2026, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
