Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal delivered an exceptional performance during Sunday’s 5-0 victory over the Cleveland Guardians, showcasing his dominance on the mound. Jack Flaherty, a fellow Tigers starter, publicly expressed his admiration for Skubal’s historic outing, highlighting the young pitcher’s remarkable achievement.

Flaherty took to Instagram after the game to share a story featuring Skubal, accompanied by a succinct caption praising the left-hander.

“THE BEST,” Flaherty wrote about Skubal.

Following a stint with the LA Dodgers during the latter part of the 2024 season, Flaherty reunited with Skubal atop the Tigers’ rotation. This partnership has proven crucial to Detroit’s success, as the team currently holds the American League’s best record at 34-20.

Tarik Skubal’s Rare Maddux Performance Shuts Down Cleveland

Skubal’s dominant effort was characterized by a rare Maddux—a complete-game shutout pitched with fewer than 100 pitches. On Sunday, he threw just 94 pitches, a feat that stands out in an era dominated by load management and analytic-driven pitch counts. This efficient performance helped Detroit avoid a series sweep at the hands of the Guardians.

Setting Records with a Powerful Pitching Display

Skubal’s complete game shutout included 13 strikeouts, the highest number ever recorded during a Maddux game, and he did so without issuing a single walk while allowing only two hits. In this landmark contest, he recorded the fastest strikeout by a starting pitcher since 2008—achieved on the final pitch he delivered.

Additionally, Skubal became the first MLB starter since Tigers legend Justin Verlander to throw a pitch as fast as 101.3 miles per hour, matching the velocity Verlander reached on July 24, 2009. At 28 years old, Skubal’s command on the mound signals a bright future for Detroit’s pitching staff.

Team Effort Secures Victory After Previous Losses

After dropping three straight games to Cleveland, the Tigers rallied behind their ace pitcher. Detroit broke the game open in the fourth inning, scoring five runs. Zach McKinstry kicked off the offensive surge with a two-run home run, followed by contributions from Gleyber Torres, Andy Ibanez, and Riley Greene, each adding important runs to help secure the win and stave off Cleveland’s sweep attempt.

This victory highlights the significance of Skubal’s performance for the Tigers as they strive to maintain their position atop the AL standings and build momentum for the remainder of the season. With Jack Flaherty and Tarik Skubal leading the frontline, Detroit’s pitching rotation looks poised to keep delivering at an elite level in crucial matchups ahead.