Two-time Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal will serve as a starting pitcher for Team USA in only one game during the upcoming World Baseball Classic. The 29-year-old left-hander revealed his plans on Monday after pitching in his first 2026 spring training outing for the Detroit Tigers.
Skubal is slated to start Team USA’s second game of the tournament on March 7 against Great Britain before returning to Tigers camp, according to details reported by Bob Nightengale of USA Today.
Skubal’s Recent Performance and Contract Status
Skubal has established himself as one of the American League’s elite pitchers, following back-to-back seasons as a Cy Young champion. In 2025, he posted a 2.21 ERA and struck out 241 batters over 195.1 innings. The Hayward, California native is entering the final season of his current contract control with Detroit.
Earlier this month, Skubal secured a record $32 million arbitration contract for 2026. He started the season strong, striking out four over two scoreless innings against the Minnesota Twins during his recent spring training appearance.
Team USA’s Pitching Commitments and Tournament Prospects
Historically, Team USA has faced challenges in securing their top pitchers for the World Baseball Classic, but this year they have achieved notable commitments from stars like Skubal and fellow starter Paul Skenes. The 2026 WBC will take place from March 5 to 17 across Miami, Houston, San Juan, and Tokyo, with coverage available via Sportsnet and Sportsnet+.
Although Skubal will pitch in just one game, he expressed interest in staying involved if the team reaches the tournament’s final round in Miami.
“If they go to the finals, I think I’m going to try and lobby to just go watch and be with the guys,”
he said Monday, as reported by Cody Stavenhagen of The Athletic.
Pool B Competition and Tournament Format
Team USA will host round-robin play at Daikin Park in Houston, competing in Pool B alongside Brazil, Great Britain, Italy, and Mexico. The two best teams from this round will advance to the quarterfinals. Pool B action begins on March 6 and can be viewed on Sportsnet or Sportsnet+.
Significance and Outlook for Team USA
Having Tarik Skubal available, even for a single start, adds considerable strength to Team USA’s pitching staff. His presence reflects a broader success in attracting premier pitchers to the World Baseball Classic, which could boost the team’s chances in the highly competitive field. Should Team USA advance deep into the tournament, Skubal’s potential role as a supporter in the finals may enhance team morale and cohesion during the most critical stages of the event.
Detroit Tigers Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal confirms the plan for him all along this spring.
He will make only one shortened start for Team USA before returning to the Tigers' camp.
He is scheduled to start March 7 against Great Britain in USA's second game of the WBC.— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) February 23, 2026
Tarik Skubal said today he will make only one start for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic before returning to Tigers camp.
"If they go to the finals, I think I'm going to try and lobby to just go watch and be with the guys," he said.
— Cody Stavenhagen (@CodyStavenhagen) February 23, 2026
