Tigers’ Skubal Looks to Continue Dominance Against Struggling Royals

SEATTLE, Washington – Reigning American League Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal is showing signs of dominance as the Detroit Tigers aim for a series sweep against the Kansas City Royals on Sunday afternoon. The Royals, who are grappling with a six-game losing streak, face off in the final game of a four-game road series.

Skubal, who currently holds a 2-2 record with a 2.66 ERA, has bounced back from a slow start this season. After losing his first two games, he secured victories in his last two outings, including six scoreless innings against the New York Yankees on April 8 and seven shutout innings against the Milwaukee Brewers on Monday.

“Just really good,” said Tigers manager A.J. Hinch about Skubal’s performance. “It looked like he was in complete control. It’s an exceptional feeling when you have Tarik on the mound.” Skubal’s recent outings include 15 strikeouts and only eight hits allowed, showcasing his current form.

Despite his success, Skubal has historically struggled against the Royals. He has a 3-9 record with a 4.83 ERA in 15 career appearances against them. On the other side, Kansas City will send veteran right-hander Michael Wacha to the mound, who has a 2-1 record with a 3.18 ERA in six career starts against Detroit.

Wacha, who is currently 0-3 with a 4.35 ERA, was encouraged by his last performance against the Yankees, despite allowing three runs. “I felt good on the mound. I felt like we were attacking the zone,” Wacha said.

This matchup will also spotlight Spencer Torkelson, who has been a driving force for the Tigers, recording eight RBIs in the series, including a three-run homer during Saturday’s 3-1 victory.