The Detroit Tigers fell one game short of reaching the ALCS after a heartbreaking extra-innings loss to the Seattle Mariners in Game 5 of the ALDS. Despite the disappointing finish, Tarik Skubal did everything he could in the postseason to give his team a chance. The 28-year-old left-hander tossed 20 2/3 innings across three playoff starts, striking out 36 batters and allowing just four total runs. He picked up only one win, as Detroit’s offense struggled to provide run support.
Skubal appeared to elevate his game in October, building on an already dominant regular season. He posted an American League-best 2.21 ERA and an MLB-best 0.89 WHIP, striking out 241 hitters over 195 1/3 innings. After winning his first AL Cy Young Award in 2024, Skubal found ways to improve in 2025.
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Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Tarik Skubal (29)© Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images
As Skubal prepares for what could be his final season with the Tigers, the organization took to social media to celebrate his latest achievement. For the second year in a row, Skubal was named the American League’s Outstanding Pitcher by the MLB Players Association. The Tigers responded to the MLBPA’s post on X.
“Congratulations to @TarikSkubal on being named the @MLBPA Players Choice Awards AL Outstanding Pitcher for the second consecutive year! 👏” Detroit wrote. With only one pitcher honored in the American League, Skubal’s selection shows the respect he has earned from players across the league.
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Skubal remains the frontrunner for back-to-back AL Cy Young Awards, and this recognition is likely just one of many more individual accomplishments to come. Skubal has spent the past six seasons in a Tigers uniform, developing from a promising prospect into one of the most dominant pitchers in baseball.
Detroit drafted him in the ninth round of the 2018 MLB Draft, and since making his debut in 2020, he has steadily climbed the ranks to become the club’s ace. Through injuries, rebuilds and now a return to postseason relevance, Skubal has been a constant presence on the mound.
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However, Skubal’s future in Detroit remains uncertain. With just one year of team control remaining, Skubal is set to hit free agency after the 2026 season. Contract talks have yet to yield an extension, and if the Tigers fail to lock him in long-term, the organization could face pressure to explore trade options rather than risk losing him for nothing. For now, Skubal remains the face of the rotation.
Related: Tigers Announce Tarik Skubal Award News on Thursday
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Oct 29, 2025, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.