Classic Series only features one start due to poor timing, Tigers' ace Skubal: A very difficult decision

Detroit Tigers' ace starting pitcher Tarik Skubal announced that he will only pitch one game in the World Baseball Classic preliminary round, sparking considerable controversy. Today he further explained his decision, stating that during spring training he truly cannot pitch at full strength for four to five innings, and considering the injury risk, he had to make this tough call.

"If this tournament were held during the season, like in hockey, pitching two games, throwing any number of pitches for Team USA would be no problem," Skubal said. "But look at my velocity progression through the season; at this point, I really can't pitch four or five innings at 99, 100 mph yet—I'm not at that stage. Suddenly increasing the workload that much brings injury risk, which is what I, the team, and my agent are concerned about."

According to the Classic schedule, a starting pitcher, following the normal four-to-five-day rest interval, could pitch one game in the preliminary round and another in the knockout stage. Two other key pitchers for Team USA, including another Cy Young Award winner Paul Skenes and Logan Webb, have already stated they will pitch two games.

But Skubal indicated he can only pitch one game in the preliminary round, after which he will return to his normal spring training preparation rhythm. The issue lies in the tournament's scheduling during spring training. "It's all about timing. I think this prevents some of the world's best players from participating. Hopefully, the Summer Olympics can be arranged properly, and our regular season could also be adjusted somewhat. I hope MLB has a plan and communicates early with the players' union so we can compete. Because I really want to represent the United States; I'm proud to be an American and proud to represent the USA."

"It's just the timing; it's really difficult. I really wanted to play," Skubal said.