Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal requires surgery on his left elbow
Detroit Tigers ace and two-time defending American League Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal requires surgery on his left elbow after his arm locked up on Sunday.
Manager A.J. Hinch confirmed the left-hander needs a procedure to remove loose bodies from his throwing arm.
The standout pitcher’s joint seized up over the weekend, forcing him to miss his scheduled start against the Boston Red Sox on Monday night.
“It will be an easy process and procedure,” Hinch told reporters.
Extended absence expected
Although the franchise has not provided a definitive timeline for his recovery, similar operations typically sideline players for two to three months.
Losing their premier starter is a significant blow to the team’s pitching rotation as they navigate the current campaign.
In response to the setback, Detroit has recalled pitching prospect Ty Madden to bolster their depleted ranks.
Bullpen steps up
Meanwhile, Tyler Holton will serve as an opener for the second consecutive game to help cover the immediate innings void.
The reliever recently pitched two-thirds of an inning during Sunday’s comprehensive 7-1 victory over the Texas Rangers.