Tarik Skubal delivered a strong performance to secure another win at home as the Detroit Tigers defeated the Pittsburgh Pirates 9-2 in the first game of a Thursday doubleheader. The victory highlighted Skubal’s continued dominance on his home field, helping the Tigers maintain their American League lead.
Pitching and Offensive Highlights Propel Detroit
Skubal (8-2) allowed two runs and six hits over 5 2/3 innings, striking out six and walking three while improving to an undefeated 6-0 record at home. Over his last 13 starts, Skubal is 8-0 with five no-decisions, an impressive run of consistency. Pittsburgh’s starter Andrew Heaney (3-6) struggled, conceding seven runs and eight hits across four innings.
Offensively, Riley Greene drove in four runs, showcasing his effectiveness at clutch moments. Gleyber Torres contributed three hits along with two runs and two RBIs, while Zach McKinstry added a solo homer, further boosting Detroit’s lead. Andrew McCutchen stood out for the Pirates with two hits and an RBI.
Key Moments During the Game
Skubal began with some difficulty, giving up a single and two walks in the first inning, but he recovered by striking out the next batter and inducing a flyout to end the threat. Detroit promptly responded with a run, as Torres singled, advanced to third on Jahmai Jones’ double, and scored on a Greene sacrifice fly.
The Tigers widened their lead to 5-0 in the second inning. After walks and singles loaded the bases, Torres drove in Dillon Dingler with a sacrifice fly. Greene then cleared the bases with a three-run double, upsetting a diving effort from center fielder Billy Cook.
Two additional runs scored in the fourth when Parker Meadows singled and later scored on Torres’ double. Spencer Torkelson then brought home Torres with a sacrifice fly to push the margin to 7-0.
Pirates Attempt Comeback and Tigers Extend Lead
Pittsburgh managed to score in the fifth inning as Billy Cook singled and advanced before scoring on McCutchen’s groundout. However, Detroit quickly answered with McKinstry providing a solo home run later in the inning. Colt Keith contributed a sacrifice fly, cementing the Tigers’ 9-2 advantage.
The Impact of Detroit’s Win and What Lies Ahead
This convincing win showcases Tarik Skubal’s rising dominance in home starts and Detroit’s potent offense as they look to sustain momentum in the American League. Pittsburgh faces challenges on the mound as they prepare for the second game of the doubleheader. The performance sets a positive tone for the Tigers as they continue their season.