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Tarik Skubal faces Orioles in final start before Trade Deadline
MLB.com • • general
Key Points:
- Justin Verlander's last start at Comerica Park as a Detroit Tiger occurred on August 20, 2017, before he was traded at the end of that month; he has since returned to the Tigers but has not pitched at home due to injuries.
- Current Tiger pitcher Tarik Skubal, a potential trade candidate and free agent after the season, is focusing on performing well despite trade rumors and the team's postseason aspirations faltering.
- Skubal has developed significantly since his 2020 debut, overcoming injury to become a Cy Young winner and a fan favorite, while managing the distractions of trade speculation with a focus on competing.
- Scouts from multiple organizations are expected at Comerica Park during Skubal’s upcoming start, reflecting ongoing trade interest, but manager A.J. Hinch emphasizes the priority of winning games to maintain playoff contention.
- Skubal is approaching a milestone of 1,000 career strikeouts, a feat achieved by only 16 pitchers in Tigers history, including legends like Jack Morris and Justin Verlander.
