Tigers Ace Tarik Skubal Avoids Injury, Expected to Start vs Guardians

Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal avoided a major injury after exiting a game against the Miami Marlins early due to tightness on his left side. Imaging tests showed no structural damage, and Tigers manager A.J. Hinch confirmed the scan came back clean, with Skubal expected to make his next scheduled start against the Cleveland Guardians. Skubal, the reigning American League Cy Young Award winner, is having an outstanding season with a 13-5 record, a 2.26 ERA, and 224 strikeouts, playing a pivotal role for the AL Central leaders. Despite some soreness near his left rib cage, Skubal took himself out of the game as a precaution to avoid further injury. The Tigers remain cautiously optimistic about his return, with ongoing monitoring by trainers and coaches, as the team seeks to maintain its strong position in the division race. Additionally, shortstop Javier Báez is recovering from swelling and bruising around his left eye but has resumed game preparations.