Tarik Skubal to Make One Start for Team USA in 2026 World Baseball Classic

LAKELAND, Fla. – Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal will make a single start for Team USA in the 2026 World Baseball Classic before returning to focus on his preparation for the upcoming MLB season. The agreement allows Skubal to participate in the international tournament while prioritizing his regular spring training routine with the Tigers.

Balancing International Duty with Club Preparation

Skubal opened his 2026 spring training campaign with four strikeouts over two scoreless innings against the Minnesota Twins on Monday. He confirmed after the outing that his participation in the World Baseball Classic will be limited to one start. “The reason I didn’t announce it [earlier] was I wanted to preserve the momentum on the WBC, but I’m just making one start and then I’ll stick around for a few games,” Skubal stated, as reported by MLB.com.

This arrangement was a key condition for Skubal’s involvement with Team USA, acknowledging the potential disruption to a pitcher’s spring workload. “It’s kind of the best of both worlds,” Skubal explained. “There’s some risk obviously, and I’m trying to do both things, trying to pitch for Team USA, but also I understand I necessitate to be here with these guys and secure ready for the season. I suppose it’s kind of the best of both worlds in that aspect, and I’m grateful they took me in that capacity.”

Skubal’s Spring Training Performance and WBC Schedule

Skubal has been ahead of schedule in spring training, facing several WBC participants during live batting practice, including Gleyber Torres (Venezuela), Jahmai Jones (Korea), and Hao-Yu Lee (Chinese Taipei). He is scheduled to start for Team USA during pool play in Houston before returning to Lakeland to continue preparing for the Tigers’ season opener against the San Diego Padres on March 26th.

Despite his limited participation, Skubal expressed enthusiasm for the WBC experience. “I’ve heard it’s pretty close atmosphere-wise [to a postseason game],” he said. “I think that’s going to be a ton of fun, going and doing that, and just sharing the clubhouse with those guys.” He even indicated a willingness to attend the tournament’s later stages as a fan if Team USA advances to the finals in Miami.

Contract Year Considerations

Skubal’s decision to limit his WBC participation also comes as he enters a contract year with the Detroit Tigers. USA TODAY noted that this limited role was partly influenced by his representation by Scott Boras, prioritizing his preparation for potential contract negotiations.

Team USA boasts a strong pitching rotation for the 2026 tournament, including Paul Skenes and Garrett Whitlock, among others. Skubal’s single start will contribute to this formidable lineup while allowing him to maintain his focus on the upcoming MLB season.