Tarik Skubal, the two-time defending Cy Young Award winner, revealed that he will make just one start for the United States during the upcoming World Baseball Classic group stage. This decision comes as the tournament begins March 5, with Skubal set to return to the Detroit Tigers immediately afterward. He will not be available for any potential elimination games.
Details on Skubal’s Scheduled Start and Team Composition
Reports indicate Skubal’s single appearance will be on March 7 in a pool-play matchup against Great Britain. This will mark his first appearance in the World Baseball Classic. Despite his limited presence, the U.S. pitching staff remains strong with 2025 Cy Young winner Paul Skenes and All-Stars Logan Webb, Joe Ryan, and Matthew Boyd all included on the roster.
Skubal Reflects on His Role and Prospects for the Tournament
Speaking after his spring training start, Skubal acknowledged the possibility of skipping the finals, even if the U.S. advances.
If they go to the finals, I think I’m going to try and lobby to just go watch and be with the guys,
Skubal said. His decision reduces pitching depth for the American team as they pursue their second WBC championship, their first since 2017.
Group B Preview and Tournament Schedule
The United States is placed in Group B alongside Brazil, Great Britain, Italy, and Mexico. Their opening game is March 6 against Brazil in Houston. The final round of the WBC will be held on March 17 in Miami, where the championship game is set to take place. Skubal’s limited participation raises questions about how the pitching rotation will adjust should the Americans advance deep into the tournament.
