The Detroit Tigers edged out the Chicago White Sox 1-0, thanks to a stellar performance on the mound from southpaw Tarik Skubal. Skubal, stepping up as the Opening Day starter for the first time in his career, delivered an exceptional performance. The American League Cy Young candidate silenced the White Sox bats over six scoreless innings. Carving corners with a 96mph+ fastball, he allowed no walks, struck out six, and threw 59 of his 83 pitches for strikes, showcasing his dominance and control.
The game’s only run came in the third inning, sparked by shortstop Javier Báez. Báez led off with a single to right field and stole second base. A groundout by centerfielder Parker Meadows advanced him to third, setting the stage for third baseman Andy Ibanez. Ibanez’s sacrifice fly to centerfield brought Báez home to put the Tigers up 1-0.
Bullpen Bolts Door Shut
After Skubal’s exit, the Tigers’ bullpen took over and preserved the lead. Right-handed reliever Shelby Miller worked a scoreless seventh inning, continuing Detroit’s pitching dominance. Left-hander Andrew Chafin handled the eighth and got the first out of the ninth. Jason Foley then closed the game in thrilling fashion. Facing a save situation, Foley struck out Yoan Moncada and Luis Robert Jr. with several sinkers exceeding 100 mph, securing his first save of the season.
Despite a commendable effort from White Sox starter Garrett Crochet, who struck out eight over six innings, the day belonged to Skubal and the Tigers’ pitching staff. The team’s pitchers combined for 11 strikeouts and did not issue a walk, retiring the final 17 batters they faced.
Key Tigers Offensive Stats:
- 3B Andy Ibanez: 1-2, 1 RBI
- 1B Spencer Torkelson: 2-4
- 2B Colt Keith: 1-4, first career MLB hit
The Tigers look to carry their momentum into the next game against the White Sox, scheduled for a 2:10pm EST start on Saturday in Chicago. The probable pitchers are RHP Kenta Maeda for the Tigers and RHP Michael Soroka for the White Sox.
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For more from our Detroit Tigers and Detroit Lions beat writer, Matt Broder, check him out on Twitter here: @mattbro21
Contact: Broder@woodwardsports.com
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Original Photo Credit: © Kamil Krzaczynski – USA TODAY Sports
