DETROIT — With his team soaring in the standings and himself a leading candidate for the Cy Young award, Detroit Tigers star pitcher Tarik Skubal has touched the MLB by taking a break to be with his wife while awaiting the birth of their second child.
No injuries, no scandals. Just a man choosing his family.
A stoppage in pitching — to keep the heart going
Tarik Skubal was placed on the Paternity List on July 23, meaning he will miss several key games for the Tigers, who lead the AL Central with a 60–42 record.
But manager A.J. Hinch isn’t worried. Instead, he smiles:
“We’re in baby-watch mode. Everyone knows how important this moment is for a father. He’s right where he needs to be.”
Skubal, 27, once told the press that his family was the “roots” that kept him strong during the years of treating a hand injury in 2022. Now, with his second child about to be born, he has shown once again what his biggest priority is in life.
Cy Young? Maybe. But being a father is the honor of a lifetime
Skubal is having the most impressive season of his career:
10 wins – 3 losses
2.19 ERA
164 strikeouts in just 127⅔ innings
ESPN experts call him “the leading candidate for the 2025 Cy Young award”. But for Skubal, the real moment of glory may not come on the field, but in the delivery room, holding his wife’s hand and hearing the baby’s first cry.
The replacement – and the legacy lesson
During Skubal’s absence, 24-year-old rookie Troy Melton will make his MLB debut – against the Pittsburgh Pirates. It’s a huge pressure but also a rare opportunity.
Skubal’s story of taking a break to become a father not only touched fans, but also carried a strong message about responsibility, courage, and family love. Melton won’t be able to replace Skubal’s spiritual role, but he is following in the footsteps of a senior who knew how to choose the right important things in life.
Family first – baseball second. But both will flourish
Skubal is expected to return this weekend, in time for the game against the Toronto Blue Jays. By then, he may be tired from lack of sleep, but also full of energy from the fire of his new baby.
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The Detroit Tigers are on a journey to regain their former glory. And it’s human moments like these – not just numbers or victories – that make a great team.
“To be a father, you don’t need a title. You just need to be present.”
And Tarik Skubal did just that.