The Detroit Tigers have emerged as a relevant team in the American League Central this season, with a strong start that has them in third place in the division. Left-hander Tarik Skubal is a standout player for the Tigers, with a 4-0 record, 1.72 ERA, and 0.76 WHIP through six starts. Skubal is being considered a possible AL Cy Young Award candidate and is drawing recognition from outside the Detroit Metro area. The team, led by Skubal, is living up to the preseason hype and showing potential for their first postseason appearance since 2014.
Despite their successful start to the season, both Skubal and manager A.J. Hinch are avoiding talk of playoffs and focusing on short-term goals. Skubal emphasizes the importance of winning each game and building off their early success. The Tigers had a slow start last season but went on to play competitively, giving them confidence for the current season. Hinch echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the need to stay focused on the game at hand rather than getting caught up in expectations and theories of success in the long season.
President of baseball operations Scott Harris has made significant additions to the Tigers’ roster in the offseason, bringing in experienced players to enhance the team’s young core. Pitchers Kenta Maeda and Jack Flaherty, along with relief pitchers Andrew Chafin and Shelby Miller, have bolstered the pitching staff. Infielder Gio Urshela and outfielder Mark Canha were also added to the lineup, providing depth and experience. These veteran players join a group of homegrown talent, all under the age of 27, who are contributing to the team’s success and fostering a competitive environment within the organization.
The Tigers’ 78-84 record last season was their best in seven years, setting the stage for higher expectations this year. The team’s strong finish to the season, winning 19 of their last 29 games, has increased optimism for their potential playoff contention. However, Hinch and the players remain focused on their day-to-day performance and the immediate task at hand, prioritizing each game over long-term goals. While outsiders may see the Tigers as contenders, the team is staying grounded and keeping their sights set on incremental progress and improvement.
Skubal emphasizes the team’s focus on winning each day, building a competitive culture and mindset within the organization. He acknowledges the potential of the team to compete with anyone but maintains a humble and hardworking attitude. The Tigers’ combination of experienced veterans and talented young players has created a dynamic roster with the potential for success. Despite their strong start to the season, the Tigers are staying grounded and prioritizing the present moment, aiming to make incremental progress and continue their upward trajectory in the competitive AL Central division.
