Tarik Skubal threw his third bullpen session Thursday as the Tigers ace continues recovering from elbow surgery. The left-hander tossed 35 pitches with his full repertoire, sitting down between sessions to simulate a second inning. Manager A.J. Hinch praised the velocity and overall stuff, calling it a 'great step' in his recovery timeline.

Skubal underwent a non-invasive procedure on May 6 to remove a loose body from his left elbow. While the surgery was described as simple, Hinch noted there are still hurdles to clear in any comeback process. The two-time American League Cy Young winner showed encouraging signs with velocity that matched his pre-injury levels during Thursday's session.

Skubal will accompany the team to Baltimore for their weekend series and throw another bullpen session. The Tigers' medical and coaching staff will evaluate his progress before determining the next phase of his return. Before the injury, Skubal posted a 2.70 ERA over seven starts this season, going 3-2 in those outings. His pending free agency after the season adds urgency to Detroit's desire for a healthy return.