Kingman native Tarik Skubal wins second Cy Young Award

The left-hander won his second consecutive Cy Young Award after posting a 13-6 record with a league-leading 2.21 ERA, 241 strikeouts and a 0.89 WHIP.

Skubal made his mark in 2024 by winning the award unanimously and continued to post elite numbers this year, improving instead of faltering under high expectations. His changeup was his secret weapon, holding opponents to a .154 batting average, and his fastball ranked among the best in the American League. Sustaining success is difficult, but the Kingman southpaw has managed to do so.

The Valley has produced some of the best talent in sports and Skubal is an example of that. While many may overlook his roots as he continues to build his legacy, those in Arizona continue to celebrate his success, no matter what colors he represents.

Even coming from a lesser-known city and a small market, it hasn’t stopped Skubal from reaching the highest levels of Major League Baseball.

Skubal is also only the fifth American League pitcher to win the award in back-to-back years, the first since Hall of Famer Pedro Martínez in 1999 and 2000, and the 12th in MLB history.

Despite the award and his status as the ace of the pitching staff, the Tigers are reportedly open to moving Skubal this offseason. However, the Cy Young winner has said he hopes to remain in Detroit.

“I’ve given everything I have to this organization,” he said, according to Detroit Free Press’ Evan Petzold. “I want to be a Tiger for a very long time… I love Detroit. Hopefully, I’m here. That’s where I’m at with all of that.”