Detroit Tigers manager A.J. Hinch did not hesitate in naming his Opening Day starting pitcher. It’s an obvious choice as Tarik Skubal was his best pitcher last season. Hinch confirmed his decision during his recent appearance on the FanDuel Sports Network Detroit broadcast of the Spring Training game between the Tigers and the Minnesota Twins.
Hinch announcement means Skubal will pitch against the defending World Series champions Los Angeles Dodgers on March 27. While facing a formidable Dodgers batter order can be an ordeal for pitchers, Skubal proved he can compete at a high level.
Skubal finished the 2024 MLB season with a 2.39 ERA and 228 strikeouts in 192 innings. He allowed only 35 walks in 31 starts. He also became the first American League pitcher since Justin Verlander to win the Triple Crown in a full season after leading in ERA, strikeouts, and wins (18).
Tarik Skubal was the Tigers’ Opening Day 2024 starter, helping shut down the Chicago White Sox. He completed six strikeouts and surrendered only three hits in six innings against the team that eventually had the Major League’s worst record last year.
Meanwhile, the Dodgers haven’t decided on who their March 27 starting pitcher will be. However, they will open the season with a two-game series against the Chicago Cubs on March 18 and 19.
-Lance Fernandez