Tigers fans cannot believe Tarik Skubal's ridiculous WBC drama was all for nothing

Every aspect of how the Detroit Tigers handled Tarik Skubal, dating back to the offseason, is being reexamined now that Skubal will be undergoing surgery to remove loose bodies in his elbow. Confirmation that the discomfort Skubal felt in his last start wasn't nothing, but also a reminder of just how obnoxious the drama was surrounding his participation with Team USA during the World Baseball Classic.

In a decision that led to baseball-style TED talks, Skubal ultimately decided to make one start for Team USA before turning his focus to the start of the season with the Tigers.

The decision was rooted in baseball logic: the World Baseball Classic was taking place less than one month before Opening Day, and, for the Tigers and for Skubal individually, the 2026 season was a pivotal one. Rather than risk injury and make multiple appearances for Team USA, Skubal made his lone start against Great Britain.

Had it just been left there, chances are it wouldn't have become a whole thing. Instead, the decision turned into a spectacle. Some questioned Skubal's dedication to Team USA, while others understood what was ahead for the two-time Cy Young award winner. Perhaps it was that back-and-forth that played a part in Skubal considering making another appearance for Team USA. Ultimately, the 29-year-old stuck to his original plan.

Tarik Skubal's WBC drama can finally be put to rest

Knowing that Skubal only made one start during the World Baseball Classic, pitching three innings, it would seem lazy to make the connection to the injury he sustained in May. Nonetheless, when it comes to lazy speculation, that is where USA Today's Bob Nightengale thrives.

No, Nightengale doesn't outright say Skubal's inclusion in the World Baseball Classic caused his injury, but the insinuation is there.

In hindsight, as was the case at the time, the nonsense surrounding Skubal and the World Baseball Classic was all for nothing. Skubal did everything right in terms of walking the line between his commitment to Team USA and the responsibility of his role with the Tigers, and yet, he still got hurt.

While many are trying to point fingers and assign blame for why Skubal will now be sidelined for the next couple of months, perhaps the Tigers and A.J. Hinch should be bigger targets instead of the World Baseball Classic. In hindsight, it seems like a gamble was made when the Tigers left Skubal in the game against the Atlanta Braves last week, despite it being clear he felt elbow discomfort.

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