Tigers' Tarik Skubal Makes MLB History With Dominant Lefty Starts

Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal has solidified his status as one of MLB's elite left-handed pitchers in 2025, joining an exclusive group by recording at least three starts in a single season with no runs allowed, no walks, and 10 or more strikeouts, a feat previously achieved only by Sandy Koufax, Randy Johnson, and Clayton Kershaw. Skubal's dominant performance against the Cleveland Guardians included seven shutout innings with 10 strikeouts and only three hits allowed, helping the Tigers complete a series sweep and extend their AL Central lead. The reigning American League Cy Young Award winner currently leads MLB pitchers with a 10–2 record, a 2.02 ERA, and a 0.81 WHIP, and his excellence has been a major factor in Detroit's best record in the American League. With a commanding 12.5 game lead in the division and Skubal pitching at an even higher level than last season, the Tigers look poised for a deep playoff run. Skubal’s postseason track record and continued improvement highlight his role as the ace of the team and a frontrunner for the AL Cy Young Award once again. His historic achievements and leadership on the mound underscore his importance to the Tigers’ success in 2025.