One of baseball’s most dominant pitchers may not have finished in the World Baseball Classic yet. Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal is reportedly reconsidering his original plan to make just one appearance for the U.S. national baseball team in this tournament. After Team USA’s emotional outing with a win over England, Skubal admitted he is now weighing the possibility of taking the mound for his second start.
more: 39-year-old former Blue Jays pitcher announces retirement immediately after WBC conclusion
Plans Subject to Change
Ahead of the tournament, Skubal had a clear plan. The two-time American League Cy Young Award winner planned to pitch just once in the contest before returning to spring training with Detroit to continue preparations for the MLB season. But his perspective may have changed after experiencing the intensity of the pitches for Team USA.
“I didn’t expect these kinds of emotions to go through my brain,” Skubal said after starting the game. “I was pretty committed to starting and getting back to camp. Things have changed.” Skubal said he plans to discuss the decision with his agent Scott Boras and the Tigers organization before making a final decision.
difficult decision
Despite the excitement surrounding the tournament, Skubal’s decision is complicated by timing. The 2026 season is approaching, and it is expected that he will sign a large contract when he becomes a free agent (FA) after the season. That led to what Skubal calls “one of the most difficult decisions” of his career: balancing national pride and professional responsibility.
Detroit manager AJ Hinch acknowledged the situation, noting that the emotions of the tournament can make the choice difficult for players who want to represent their country as they prepare for the MLB season.
Team USA awaits response
At this time, Team USA has not confirmed whether Skubal will pitch again. The team continues its World Baseball Classic run with a stacked roster and high expectations, and adding another starter from one of baseball’s elite pitchers would be a significant boost.
If Skubal ultimately decides to return to the mound, he would be another powerful weapon in Team USA’s quest for victory on the international stage. However, until a final decision is made, the baseball world will be watching closely to see if Tarik Skubal will play in the World Baseball Classic once more.
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