Tigers ace Skubal to undergo elbow surgery this week
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Detroit: Two-time AL Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal will have surgery to remove loose bodies from his left elbow after being scratched from Monday's start against the Boston Red Sox. Manager A.J. Hinch said Skubal felt discomfort Sunday following an earlier scare against the Atlanta Braves, and tests revealed the loose bodies requiring a procedure.
Detroit team officials have not scheduled the procedure but said similar injuries usually entail a two-to-three month recovery, potentially allowing Skubal to return before the season ends. Skubal posted a 2.70 ERA with 45 strikeouts through seven starts and recently won a $32 million arbitration award; he is set to be a free agent next offseason.
More context
Timeline
- 1. Skubal pitched one game for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic this spring before returning to Tigers spring training.
- 2. He began the MLB season and through seven starts had a 2.70 ERA with 45 strikeouts.
- 3. Less than a week before Monday's game, Skubal experienced an injury scare against the Atlanta Braves.
- 4. Skubal felt elbow discomfort Sunday and was scratched from Monday's start versus the Boston Red Sox; tests followed.
- 5. Tests identified loose bodies in the elbow and the Tigers announced he will have surgery with a typical two-to-three month recovery timeframe.
Why it matters
If you're a Tigers fan, losing Skubal is a blow. He's a key player with a strong record this season. His absence could affect the team's performance. Keep an eye on how the Tigers adjust their lineup.
Sources
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