Detroit Tigers manager AJ Hinch has expressed confidence in the team’s starting rotation following the recent acquisition of Framber Valdez. The rotation now features two of the premier left-handed pitchers in the league, complemented by a group of dependable right-handers. Veteran reliever Kenley Jansen has also joined the bullpen, adding experience to the late-inning staff. These moves have positioned the Tigers as strong contenders once again in the American League Central division, prominently backed by their pitching talent.
Hinch discusses Tarik Skubal’s unique motivation on Foul Territory Podcast
During an appearance on the Foul Territory Podcast, AJ Hinch shared insights into what drives the team’s ace, Tarik Skubal. Hinch highlighted that the young lefty thrives on honest, direct feedback, regardless of how tough it may sound.
“He wants you to punch him in the face and tell him that he stunk that day.” – AJ Hinch, Detroit Tigers manager
Hinch emphasized that Skubal demands full transparency regarding his performance, even when it means hearing harsh criticism. This straightforward approach helps Skubal recalibrate and improve continuously.
The impact of candid feedback on Skubal’s performance
Hinch described how Skubal reacts when he is not at his best during the season. There are a few instances each year when the pitcher “isn’t quite feeling it” and is not performing at his usual high level. In those moments, Skubal prefers blunt, honest feedback to help correct his mistakes rather than sugarcoated encouragement.
“There are 2-3 times per year when he is just not quite feeling it, and he’s not quite punching out the world or whatever. He wants you to kind of punch him in the face and tell him that he stunk that day, or you didn’t like the way he did this. So, motivating him is hitting him dead straight with the information that you have, and what the expectations are, and why you’re doing what you’re doing, and getting him into his routine and process.” – AJ Hinch, Detroit Tigers manager
Skubal’s willingness to accept and act on tough feedback contributes significantly to his steady development as a pitcher. Instead of shying away from criticism, he uses it as a tool to fix issues and enhance his game, fueling his impressive ascent in the major leagues.
Consistent bounce-back efforts underline Skubal’s resilience
In the 2025 season, Skubal displayed remarkable resilience whenever he struggled during a game. On eight separate occasions, after allowing earned runs, he rebounded with a shutout performance in the very next outing. This pattern of bouncing back highlights how the feedback-driven motivation fuels his dedication and effectiveness on the mound.
With the solid support of AJ Hinch’s coaching and the team’s bolstered pitching lineup—featuring players like Framber Valdez and Kenley Jansen—the Tigers look poised to challenge the competition in the AL Central. Skubal’s approach to self-improvement through direct feedback will remain a key factor in his and the team’s future success.
"He wants you to punch him in the face and tell him that he stunk that day."
AJ Hinch says Tarik Skubal's biggest motivator is feedback. 😤 pic.twitter.com/UmbCDdmwsj
— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) February 7, 2026
