Skubal’s dominant start earns MLB recognition for historic accomplishment

Tarik Skubal is in some elite company. As MLB pointed out after his brilliant performance on Sunday Night Baseball, he became the third pitcher in the past 40 years to win 10 consecutive decisions in a season for the Detroit Tigers, joining legends like Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander. 

In the Motor City, that's like the Mount Rushmore of Tigers pitching. 

Skubal, who has been on an incredible run, is putting together a career-defining season _ even after winning the 2024 Cy Young. 

In 2025, Skubal has dominated, holding a 2.49 ERA and a 1.97 FIP over 68⅔ innings, with an impressive 13 strikeouts in his latest start. His ability to generate swings-and-misses and induce weak contact has been a hallmark of his rise as one of the league’s top pitchers. Skubal's strike rate, currently at 32%, is the highest in the majors and reflects his dominance over hitters this season.

Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal pitches against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field on May 17, 2024.

Patrick Breen / Arizona Republic / USA TODAY Network

On Sunday night, in his first appearance on Sunday Night Baseball, Skubal went seven innings, allowing just one hit while tying his career high with 13 strikeouts. 

It was the kind of performance that has quickly made him one of the most feared pitchers in baseball.

With the Tigers in the playoff hunt, Skubal’s ability to rise to the challenge of being an ace start after start will be crucial to their chances down the stretch. 

He’s already shown he can rise to the occasion, and with this milestone, it’s clear the Tigers have a star who can carry them in big moments.