Dodgers pitcher Tarik Skubal set to face former Tigers in first start since trade
Tarik Skubal will pitch for the Los Angeles Dodgers against the Detroit Tigers on Friday, his first appearance in Detroit since the trade, and says he relies on a true-crime documentary routine to stay focused.
Los Angeles Dodgers right-hander Tarik Skubal is scheduled to start against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park on Friday, marking his first game in Detroit since the July trade that sent him to Los Angeles. Skubal told The Athletic that playing in a venue where he spent eight seasons will be emotionally challenging, but he intends to treat the outing like any other game.
He said he maintains focus during the season by following a daily "true-crime ritual," which includes watching documentaries such as a recent Charles Manson film on Netflix. Skubal explained that allowing his thoughts to drift to past or future events would be a distraction and that the routine helps keep his mind on the present.
The 29-year-old pitcher, a two-time American League Cy Young Award winner, has posted a 3.38 ERA with 30 strikeouts in 24 innings over his first four starts for the Dodgers. He previously compiled a 2.67 ERA in 445.2 innings across 77 career starts at Comerica Park. The Tigers, who secured a wild-card spot in the 2024 postseason, will be one of the four teams Skubal has yet to face in his MLB career.