In the midst of the World Baseball Classic, Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal made headlines by leaving Team USA after their game against Great Britain. While the team supported his decision, some outside voices weren’t as forgiving, given that Skubal made only one start.
Addressing the criticism, Skubal shared his thoughts on the situation. "It’s just not fair," he remarked.
"But that’s part of the business. It’s part of the game.
If people know me personally and understand what my peers think of me, they’d see it differently."
When asked if the criticism made his decision tougher, Skubal was clear. "No, because those opinions are often from people who don’t know me," he explained.
"If you ask anyone in the clubhouse, my teammates on Team USA have been vocally supportive. I spoke with them personally, and they played a big role in my decision.
The outside narrative is beyond my control. I focus on what I can manage."
With free agency looming after this season, Skubal is poised for a significant contract. While this may have influenced his choice, he also seemed intent on doing what’s best for the Tigers.
Ultimately, as long as his Team USA teammates understand his position, that’s what truly counts.