UPDATE: In a suspenseful showdown on September 28, 2023, Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal delivered an impressive performance despite the team’s 3-1 loss to the Cleveland Guardians. Skubal, who faced an injury scare earlier this week, allowed only one run over six innings, striking out a career-high 229 batters this season.
The game took place at Comerica Park with Skubal showcasing his skills in a critical moment for the Tigers, who have now lost 14 of their last 21 games. After experiencing tightness in his left side during his last outing, Skubal’s return was met with relief by fans and teammates alike.
In a tightly contested match, Skubal maintained a 1-1 tie until the seventh inning, when he was replaced by right-hander Troy Melton. Just nine pitches later, Jose Ramirez launched a two-run homer, propelling the Guardians to a decisive lead.
The Tigers were hoping to clinch the series finale against the second-place Guardians, who are on a remarkable winning streak with seven consecutive victories and 11 wins in their last 12 games. The Guardians have now closed the gap to just 3.5 games behind the AL Central-leading Tigers.
Skubal’s performance included a standout moment in the fourth inning when he allowed a game-tying solo homer to Jhonkensy Noel after an ill-fated 0-2 changeup. Nonetheless, he rallied with impressive strikeouts, including a remarkable 101.5-mph pitch to retire David Fry and end the fifth inning.
As he entered the sixth inning with 82 pitches, Skubal continued to dominate. However, a missed opportunity in right field allowed Brayan Rocchio to hit a triple, extending the inning. Skubal finished strong, striking out Nolan Jones with a blistering 99.5-mph pitch.
With this performance, Skubal tied Mickey Lolich’s record for the most games in Tigers history with six innings pitched and one run or less, achieving this for the seventh time this season. Despite the loss, Skubal’s health and performance are critical as the Tigers prepare for three more matchups against the Guardians next week.
Stay tuned for updates as the postseason approaches and both teams vie for playoff positioning. The stakes have never been higher, and every game counts as October nears.
