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Tigers Ace Skubal Weighs Extended WBC Stay Amid Contract Uncertainty

ESPN MLB •
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Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal, a two-time AL Cy Young winner, is reevaluating his participation in the World Baseball Classic (WBC), initially planning to make a single appearance before returning to spring training. After allowing a home run in his debut against Great Britain, Skubal admitted to conflicting emotions: 'It's hard to walk away from this team' despite his commitment to the Tigers. Skubal's five strikeouts over 41 pitches showcased his dominance, but his lingering connection to Team USA complicates his decision. The reigning Cy Young expressed gratitude for the U.S. squad's support but acknowledged the struggle of leaving a high-stakes environment. Detroit's potential $200M+ free-agent market next offseason adds pressure, though Skubal remains undecided: 'I'm not in the right headspace to make a decision right now.'