DETROIT — As the 2025 season ended with a series of historic moments, Detroit Tigers star pitcher Tarik Skubal was officially named “Tiger of the Year” by the Detroit Baseball Writers Association (BBWAA), cementing his status as the new soul of the Motor City team.
Skubal, 28, had a nearly dominant season. He finished the year with a 13-6 record, a 2.21 ERA, and 24 starts – including 12 games in which he pitched at least six innings without allowing a run, a record in Tigers history. He also became the first player in team history to throw a complete game shutout, allowing just two hits while recording 13 strikeouts – a performance fans described as “unreal.”
“Skubal doesn’t just pitch. He inspires. Every time he steps on the mound, the whole stadium holds its breath,” said head coach A.J. Hinch after the ceremony.
It’s hard to believe that just three years ago, Skubal was struggling to regain his form after a left hand injury. But through sheer will and discipline, he has reborn as a symbol of strength and perseverance, like the image of Detroit – a city that once fell but never bowed.
MLB Network commented: “Skubal is at the peak of his career, and is probably one of the most feared pitchers in America right now.” Statisticians have also said he’s a leading candidate for the AL Cy Young Award if he continues this form.
Tigers fans have seen countless stars come and go – from Justin Verlander to Max Scherzer – but Skubal brings something different: absolute loyalty. He said in an interview after the September 14 victory:
“I wasn’t born in Detroit, but I want to be here my whole life. This is more than just a team… this is a family.”
The quote has gone viral, turning Skubal into a symbol of the faith and revival Detroiters have been waiting for.
Last night, when the “Tiger of the Year 2025” award ceremony ended with thunderous applause at Comerica Park, Skubal didn’t raise the trophy. He just bowed his head, put his hand on his “D” logo, and smiled – the smile of someone who knows this journey is just beginning.
Detroit has had its share of legends – Verlander, Kaline, Cabrera – and now Tarik Skubal is writing the next chapter in Tigers history.
With every pitch that cuts through the cold Michigan air, he is reigniting pride in a city where dreams are forged from the heart, and victories begin with the heart.
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