Los Angeles Dodgers ace Tarik Skubal was excellent against the Detroit Tigers on Friday in his first start at Comerica Park against his former team.
Skubal, who was traded in early August, allowed one run on four hits with zero walks and seven strikeouts on 83 pitches over six innings. The Dodgers won the game 2-1, but Skubal didn't factor into the decision.
"Of course I did want to go back out there," Skubal said postgame when asked if he wanted to pitch into the seventh, according to SportsNet LA. "Those decisions aren't my decisions. (Dave Roberts) kind of came to me and said that we've got a long road. He said he's kind of pushed me recently."
The 29-year-old received a mixed reaction from fans at the ballpark prior to his highly anticipated return.
Tarik Skubal receives a mixed reception as he takes the mound in Detroit for the first time since being traded to the Dodgers.pic.twitter.com/x5c3dBYtq5
— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) August 28, 2026
Skubal was visibly emotional following a pregame tribute video.
An emotional night back in Detroit for Tarik Skubal pic.twitter.com/WP0Plu3GWN
— MLB (@MLB) August 28, 2026
"I think I did cry if you go and watch the video," Skubal said. "Luckily enough, I was able to make it to the tunnel before more happened. It's tough. This is the place I've known my entire career since 2018. It was special for sure."
Skubal spent the first seven years of his career with the Tigers, earning back-to-back AL Cy Young honors in 2024 and 2025. The pending free agent is expected to land a record-breaking contract for a pitcher this offseason.
Skubal has already acknowledged that he would welcome a reunion with the Tigers.
"I would have loved to play my whole career in Detroit," Skubal said earlier this month. "Hopefully those negotiations can pick back up in November once the playoffs are done. We'll see where that goes. Hopefully they're involved with everything. I would love to return."
