Detroit Tigers lose Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal to elbow surgery
Two‑time American League Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal will undergo surgery to remove loose bodies from his left elbow, Detroit Tigers manager A. J. Hinch announced. The procedure is expected to sideline the 29‑year‑old left‑hander for two to three months, with no firm timetable for his return.
Skubal, who entered the 2026 season on a $32 million contract after winning arbitration, has made seven starts with a 2.70 ERA and 45 strikeouts. His absence creates a significant hole in Detroit’s rotation as the club battles for the AL Central lead. The Tigers plan to promote Ty Madden from Triple‑A and may explore trade options for additional pitching help.
Skubal is set to become a free agent after the season, and his injury raises questions about his future contract value. The team and player have not provided a specific recovery date, but the surgery is described as a relatively routine “scope” rather than Tommy John reconstruction.