Skubal speeds up: Tigers pitcher regains velocity after elbow surgery

Tarik Skubal Progresses in Recovery: Promising Bullpen Session

DETROIT – Detroit Tigers star pitcher Tarik Skubal continues to show significant progress in his recovery following his recent arthroscopic elbow surgery. Just fifteen days after the intervention, Skubal completed an intense bullpen session that brought him closer to his usual speed. The practice on Thursday was designed to simulate the actual conditions of a game, including breaks between innings and a gradual increase in the speed of their pitches. Skubal was optimistic after the session.

“There was a speed I wanted to reach today and I achieved it, so it was a good day,” Skubal expressed.

Tarik Skubal

The pitcher explained that one of the main goals was to demonstrate to his body and mind that he can throw with greater intensity without restrictions. Although he has not yet reached the official game speed, he is “relatively close”, which indicates favorable progress in his recovery. Tigers manager A.J. Hinch highlighted Skubal’s excitement after the practice.

“He entered my office excited. There are small obstacles to overcome when you return from a procedure like this,” Hinch commented.

A. J. Hinch

Skubal is scheduled for another bullpen session during the road trip in Baltimore this weekend. Subsequently, he will continue to increase the intensity of his preparation at the beginning of next week. Despite the optimism, Skubal confirmed that he will have to participate in a simulated game or a rehabilitation start before his official return, ruling out an immediate return to the Major Leagues. The pitcher also acknowledged that the recovery process he is experiencing is uncommon in baseball, especially given how quickly he has resumed high-intensity activities after surgery.

“I want to return as quickly as possible, but I need to come back healthy. There’s no point in rushing and ending up back on the injured list,” Skubal said.

Tarik Skubal

The pitcher added that he will continue to evaluate his progress day by day with the medical team and coaches, while the Tigers hope to recover one of their key players for the second half of the season.