In Detroit, they’re not just backing Tarik Skubal - they’re ready to build him a statue. And after what he’s done over the past two seasons, it’s hard to blame them. But in Pittsburgh, there’s a growing belief that Paul Skenes isn’t just the future of pitching - he might already be the present.
This weekend, during the Lions-Steelers showdown at Ford Field, the public address announcer introduced Skubal as *“the best pitcher in baseball.” * That’s not exactly a neutral statement, especially when the visiting city is home to the flamethrower who just might be next in line for that title.
And with both fanbases starved for something - anything - to rally around, the Skubal vs. Skenes debate is heating up fast.
Let’s start with Skubal. The Tigers’ ace has turned in back-to-back seasons of sub-2.40 ERAs while logging over 190 innings each year.
In today’s game, where innings limits and load management are the norm, that kind of durability paired with elite production is rare air. He’s not just surviving; he’s dominating.
And he’s doing it every fifth day.
Then there’s Skenes - the Pirates’ phenom who’s barely been in the league long enough to need a dry-cleaning budget, but already looks like he belongs in Cy Young conversations. A 1.96 ERA, a 0.948 WHIP, and 386 strikeouts in just over 320 innings?
That’s not just rookie brilliance - that’s generational talent. He walked away with both the National League Rookie of the Year and Cy Young honors in 2024, and if he keeps this up, we’re looking at a guy who could define the next decade on the mound.
But here’s the thing: this isn’t just a baseball argument. It’s a city pride battle.
Detroit fans needed something - anything - to hold onto after the Lions dropped a crushing 28-24 loss to the Steelers on Sunday. That game didn’t just hurt; it threw a wrench into the Lions’ playoff hopes.
So when Skubal showed up at the game, he wasn’t just a guest - he was a symbol. A reminder that even if the football team is wobbling, Detroit still has an ace worth bragging about.
Meanwhile, in Pittsburgh, Skenes isn’t just a rising star - he’s the reason fans keep showing up. After years of watching the Pirates flounder near the bottom of the standings, Skenes has become a beacon of hope. He’s the kind of player who makes you believe again - who makes you circle his starts on the calendar and tune in even when the standings say there’s nothing left to play for.
So yeah, fans are going to dig in. Detroit’s going to ride for Skubal.
Pittsburgh’s going to plant its flag with Skenes. And honestly?
That’s what makes baseball great. Two cities, two aces, and a whole lot of pride on the line.
Could both pitchers eventually end up in bigger markets like Los Angeles or New York? Sure - that’s always a possibility in today’s MLB.
But for now, let’s not get ahead of ourselves. It’s still football season, the debate is just heating up, and if you’re a fan of elite pitching, you’re in for a treat - no matter which side you’re on.