Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal delivered a remarkable performance in the final game of the four-game series against the Guardians on Sunday afternoon. Achieving his first complete game shutout in the major leagues, Skubal played a pivotal role in the Tigers’ 5-0 victory, showcasing why he earned the American League Cy Young award.
Following this milestone, Skubal shared a video on Instagram capturing the moment he struck out Guardians second baseman Gabriel Arias to close out the game. The broadcast snippet confirmed Skubal’s record-setting fastball, highlighting the historic nature of his achievement.
“One of them ones” — Tarik Skubal
The video revealed that Skubal threw the fastest strikeout pitch by a starting pitcher since pitch velocity tracking began in 2008. This pitch also set a new MLB record for the fastest pitch thrown by a starter in the ninth inning or later, surpassing Tigers legend Justin Verlander’s 101.3 miles per hour mark set in June 2009.
In this outing, the Tigers avoided a home sweep with Skubal delivering a Maddux — a complete game shutout with fewer than 100 pitches thrown (94) and striking out 13 Guardians hitters. Skubal is scheduled to pitch next against the Kansas City Royals on Saturday, May 31.
Analysis of Skubal’s Exceptional 2024 Season Performance
Entering the 2024 season, few predicted Tarik Skubal would carry forward his success from his 2023 Cy Young-winning campaign with such dominance. Now in his sixth year with the Tigers, the 28-year-old has continued to impress with stellar statistics over 11 starts.
Skubal boasts a 2.49 ERA, a 0.84 WHIP, 92 strikeouts, and a 5-2 win-loss record so far this year. His fastball velocity has improved from an average of 96.9 mph last season to 97.7 mph this year, along with an increase in vertical break from 16.2 to 17.6 inches, enhancing the pitch’s difficulty to hit.
Despite the velocity and break of his four-seam fastball making it highly effective, Skubal actually uses his changeup more, having thrown 316 changeups compared to 289 four-seamers in 2024. His diverse arsenal also includes 232 sinkers, 130 sliders, and occasional knuckle curves.
According to Baseball Savant, Skubal ranks in the 100th percentile for pitching and offspeed run value, showing his effectiveness in controlling hitters. His fastball run value also places him in the 98th percentile, underscoring his dominance on the mound.
What Skubal’s Performance Means for the Tigers Going Forward
Tarik Skubal’s historic complete game shutout and record-setting ninth-inning strikeout affirm his position as a central figure in the Tigers’ rotation. His ability to combine efficiency with overpowering stuff not only helps his team avoid series losses but also provides hope for a stronger season finish.
With a challenging matchup ahead against the Kansas City Royals, expectations remain high for Skubal to maintain this form. As the Tigers look to build momentum, Skubal’s continued excellence will be vital to their success in the American League.