Tarik Skubal Takes Major Step in Recovery, Throws Live Batting Practice

In a promising sign for the Detroit Tigers, Tarik Skubal took a significant step toward his return by throwing live batting practice at Comerica Park on Tuesday, prior to the team’s game against the Los Angeles Angels. This development is particularly encouraging for a Tigers squad that has been struggling in the absence of their ace.

Just three weeks have passed since the two-time Cy Young Award winner underwent elbow surgery to remove a loose body from his left elbow. Remarkably, his recovery and rehabilitation have progressed at an unprecedented pace, aided by innovative NanoNeedle technology.

Tuesday marked Skubal’s scheduled “start day” in his five-day progression back to the mound. Following his last outing, a bullpen session where he showcased his full repertoire, Tigers manager A.J. Hinch expressed optimism about Skubal’s readiness to face hitters. In his weekly SiriusXM appearance, Hinch noted that the session could resemble a short sim game.

Despite the encouraging signs, Skubal is taking a cautious approach, wanting to ensure he does not rush back. “I don’t know in the history of the game if there’s been a surgery 15 days ago and I’m throwing a one-inning hypothetical start,” he reflected last week. “I want to be back as fast as possible. I also want to be healthy.”

While Skubal will require additional time before rejoining the Tigers’ rotation, Hinch did not commit to a traditional minor league rehab assignment during his SiriusXM interview. He emphasized the importance of Skubal being built up sufficiently to contribute effectively upon his return.

With the Tigers currently sitting at 20-31 and 9.5 games behind the Central Division-leading Cleveland Guardians, the need for Skubal’s return is urgent. He is one of three starters sidelined, alongside Casey Mize and Justin Verlander, contributing to the team’s struggles as they hold the worst record in baseball for May.

Before his surgery, Skubal had been performing well, boasting a 2.70 ERA, a 0.95 WHIP, and an impressive 45-to-6 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 43 1/3 innings across seven starts. As the Tigers look to turn their season around, Skubal’s potential return could be a game-changer.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.