Tarik Skubal’s first start in Detroit as a member of the Los Angeles Dodgers was always going to be an emotional occasion for the reigning Cy Young winner.
The left-hander delivered an impressive performance against his former team, holding the Detroit Tigers to four hits and one run over six innings while striking out seven batters. However, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts removed Skubal after only 83 pitches, preventing him from pitching deeper into the game.
Dave Roberts takes cautious approach with Tarik Skubal
Television cameras later captured Roberts and Skubal discussing the decision in the dugout. Skubal was visibly disappointed, although the exchange did not appear heated. He had hoped to remain in the game as long as possible during his emotional return to Detroit.
After the game, Skubal discussed the situation briefly and explained that Roberts told him the Dodgers would need him over the long haul. Los Angeles is focused on winning another World Series, and keeping Skubal healthy will be crucial to those ambitions.
Roberts’ decision ultimately worked. The Dodgers’ bullpen shut out the Tigers over the final three innings, while Freddie Freeman delivered the game-winning hit in the eighth inning.
Source: www.marca.com
