Tarik Skubal Wins 2024 AL Cy Young, Overcomes Injuries to Lead Tigers to Postseason
November 20, 2024Tigers manager A.J. Hinch praised Skubal's growth and importance to the team, especially after the trade of Jack Flaherty left them with limited starting pitchers.
His performance included two wins in three postseason starts, highlighted by 17 consecutive scoreless innings before a tough loss in Game 5 against the Cleveland Guardians.
His father, Russ Skubal, attributed Tarik's competitive nature to growing up in a household of five boys, emphasizing his 'killer instinct' on the mound.
In contrast, fellow MLB pitcher Logan Allen commended Skubal's work ethic and determination, highlighting the respect he has earned among peers.
Despite these setbacks, Skubal demonstrated resilience, finishing the 2024 season with an impressive record and helping the Tigers reach the postseason for the first time since 2014.
Looking ahead, Skubal is focused on maintaining his health and has already begun his offseason workout regimen, with a contract valued at $11.2 million for 2025.
Tarik Skubal of the Detroit Tigers was awarded the American League Cy Young Award for the 2024 season, marking a significant achievement in his career.
Skubal's success comes after a challenging 2023 season marred by injuries, including a stress reaction in his scapula that sidelined him for two months.
Skubal expressed gratitude for his support system, emphasizing that all the hard work made his accomplishments feel extremely worthwhile.
In a celebratory moment, Skubal's wife surprised him with a new car, and friends doused him in champagne, showcasing the joy of his achievement.
Skubal's talent was recognized early in his career when he was drafted by the Tigers in the ninth round in 2018, seen as a potential draft steal.
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