Tarik Skubal's World Baseball Classic debut ended dramatically as Nate Eaton's leadoff home run handed Great Britain a 1-0 lead. The Detroit Tigers ace surrendered only two hits on 41 pitches, striking out five while walking none. Eaton's solo homer in the first inning highlighted Skubal's shaky start, though he settled down to retire the side in order in the second and third innings. Skubal's performance came amidst significant contract uncertainty; the Tigers and the two-time Cy Young winner failed to reach a long-term agreement this offseason, leaving the ace pitcher's future with Detroit unresolved.