Insider Reveals Encouraging Tarik Skubal Injury Update

The update is certainly encouraging news for a Tigers rotation that has been ravaged by injuries to begin the 2026 season.

Skubal has not pitched since April 29 and is one of several Detroit starters currently sidelined alongside Casey Mize (adductor strain) and Justin Verlander (left hip inflammation). Mize and Skubal, both 2025 AL All-Stars, have been limited to six and seven starts, respectively. Meanwhile, Verlander has not pitched since March 30 after allowing five runs over 3.2 innings in his "homecoming" start.

Since then, Detroit has leaned heavily on Jack Flaherty, Framber Valdez, and a stretched-out bullpen to keep the pitching staff afloat.

Despite these injuries, however, the Tigers may finally be turning a corner health-wise. Mize is eligible to return from the injured list as early as today after throwing a live batting practice session earlier in the week. He could potentially avoid a rehab assignment entirely. The right-hander posted a 2.90 ERA across 31 innings in his first six starts before suffering the injury.

As for Skubal, Detroit will undoubtedly be cautious with its ace. But the early signs in his recovery are promising. The 29-year-old pitcher owns a 3-2 record with a 2.70 ERA across 43.1 innings in 2026. He has also recorded 45 strikeouts to just six walks, good for an absurd 7.50 strikeout-to-walk ratio.

The Tigers are in desperate need of that production right now. Detroit enters tonight's series opener against the Toronto Blue Jays having lost eight of its last 10 games, including a three-game sweep at the hands of the New York Mets. The Tigers are also tied with the Kansas City Royals for last place in the AL Central.

Detroit will turn to Brenan Hanifee as an opener for Ty Madden for Friday night's matchup against Toronto.