Skubal impresses with 5 scoreless in rehab start following surgery

Tarik Skubal made a rehab start at High-A West Michigan on June 7, 2026. While Jack Flaherty and the Tigers faced the Mariners at Comerica Park in the ALDS rematch, Skubal delivered five scoreless innings with six strikeouts in a performance that positioned him to rejoin Detroit’s rotation the following weekend during their series against Cleveland. This series could significantly influence their chances of re-entering the playoff race. Skubal demonstrated his readiness after a month and a day post-surgery to remove a loose body from his left elbow. Over the last two weeks, he had gradually increased his workload through simulated games and needed just eight pitches—all strikes—to retire the Dayton Dragons in the first inning. He struck out leadoff hitter Carlos Sanchez with a fastball reaching 97 mph and fanned top prospect Alfredo Duno at 98 mph. In the second inning, he utilized his secondary pitches for more strikeouts and hit 99 mph on a few fastballs, as noted by Whitecaps broadcaster Dan Hasty. He only allowed one baserunner from a fifth-inning ground ball, which was assisted by an infield single off the Tigers’ No. 2 prospect, Bryce Rainer. After finishing the inning, Skubal continued to pitch in the bullpen, aiming for around 75 total pitches. Manager A.J. Hinch emphasized the importance of transitioning from simulated games to live situations, noting that game scenarios require a different mental approach that cannot be replicated in practice. Skubal’s rehab effort came just a short drive from Detroit, and the team opted for this location due to better weather conditions than those expected in Des Moines, Iowa, where Triple-A Toledo's game was canceled because of rain. Although Hinch did not confirm a specific return date for Skubal, he indicated optimism for a swift return, possibly during the series opener in Cleveland. With other injured starters, Casey Mize and Justin Verlander, slated to make rehab starts, the Tigers were preparing for a potential rotation change between the Cleveland series and their subsequent series in Houston. Hinch expressed the need for preparedness in the upcoming weeks, emphasizing that they require their returning players not only to be back but to perform well.