Pedro Martinez, a Hall of Famer and three-time Cy Young winner, recently highlighted Detroit Tigers’ Tarik Skubal as one of baseball’s emerging elite pitchers. Speaking on the 6-1-1 podcast, Martinez commended Skubal’s intensity and aggressive approach on the mound, describing him as a “bully” in a positive sense. Martinez also mentioned Paul Skenes of the Pittsburgh Pirates, noting both young pitchers’ fearlessness and relentless determination as key traits setting them apart in Major League Baseball today.

Since breaking into the majors last season, Skubal and Skenes have impressed fans and analysts alike with their pitching skills. Martinez emphasized that although they lack the extensive experience he had during his prime, they are quickly gaining the knowledge and mindset needed to dominate hitters. According to Martinez, this combination of raw talent and growing maturity makes them highly promising talents to watch.

Emphasis on Preparation and Physical Conditioning in Skubal’s Rise

Beyond his pitching ability, Martinez pointed out how Skubal and Skenes prioritize their physical health and training, which has accelerated their development. He highlighted that both players have already tailored their preparation routines to sustain peak performance every five days, something that took Martinez years to perfect during his career.

“Well, I love everything he (Skubal) does,” Martinez said (Timestamp: 0:56). “But the first thing that makes these kids (Skubal and Skenes) special is determination. Both of them have it. They don’t have the experience I probably had when I won my Cy Youngs, but they’re getting it. And they’re bullies, both of them.

“They attack the strike zone, and they’re not afraid, and they are starting to kind of build the plan that I learned how to, you know, I built myself when I was in baseball.”

Martinez Foresees a Hall of Fame Future for Skubal

Martinez offered a strong endorsement of Skubal’s future potential, suggesting the Tigers’ ace is on a clear path toward Cooperstown. He applauded Skubal’s exceptional physicality and command on the mound, noting that despite Skubal’s linebacker-like build, he demonstrates remarkable flexibility and control.

“They understand how to take care of their bodies,” Martinez said (Timestamp: 2:36). “Skenes has a program that’s unlike nobody. Nobody does that. Only a big man like that has a program that he already figured out works for him.”

Martinez went on to explain that Skubal’s ability to manipulate his pitches, especially his changeup, showcases a unique blend of skill and self-awareness. He credits Skubal’s dedicated regimen for his ongoing success and expressed confidence that if Skubal maintains his health and training, he will soon join the ranks of baseball’s greats.

“But how he manipulates the ball, how he understands his body to do the things he does to throw the changeup the way he does, is very unique,” Martinez added. “I don’t know his program for sure, but I’m sure it’s working. And if he continues to do that and stay strong and healthy, he’s going to be a future Hall of Fame soon.”

Current Standing Among MLB’s Top Pitchers

As of now, Tarik Skubal is regarded as one of the best pitchers active in Major League Baseball. He stands as a leading candidate to win the Cy Young Award in the American League this season, demonstrating his dominance over hitters. Meanwhile, Paul Skenes holds a slight edge as a favorite in the National League Cy Young race. Their ongoing rise highlights a new generation of pitchers who combine power, precision, and smart preparation to redefine excellence on the mound.

Martinez’s predictions carry significant weight, given his own legendary status and deep understanding of pitching mastery. His optimism about Skubal’s trajectory signals a bright future ahead and adds excitement for fans following the careers of these young stars.