Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal says he won’t rush elbow rehab despite speculation

Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal, the reigning American League Cy Young winner, underwent NanoScope surgery on May 6 to remove a loose body from his elbow. He described his recovery as “day‑to‑day,” emphasizing that returning too quickly could affect his performance and the team’s season. After a recent bullpen session where he threw all his pitches, Skubal said he still needs to meet specific rehab benchmarks before rejoining the rotation.

Skubal’s health is critical for both his free‑agency value—speculation suggests a contract could exceed $400 million—and the Tigers’ playoff hopes. The team has struggled since his last start on April 29, falling to a 5‑14 record in the past 19 games and trailing the AL Central leaders. He currently holds a 2.70 ERA with 45 strikeouts over 43.1 innings.