After a tremendous start to his season (2.33 ERA in his first 11 starts), Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal was referred to by many members of the media (including us) as the team's “Ace”.
Well, Skubal has struggled as of late, including during Wednesday night's 6-2 loss to the Boston Red Sox as he gave up six runs on six hits while walking three in 4⅔ innings of work.
http://gty.im/1241465493
Tigers skipper A.J. Hinch knows Tarik Skubal won't back down
In his past three starts, Tarik Skubal has allowed 15 runs in just 13⅔ innings and his 2.33 ERA has quickly ballooned to 3.63.
Following the game, Tigers manager A.J. Hinch spoke to the media about Skubal's recent struggles and he assured everyone who was listening that the youngster “won't back down.”
“I don't think three rough outings define you, just like I don't think three good outings mean you've got it all figured out,” manager A.J. Hinch told reporters in Boston. “This is a tough league with some tough matchups.
“He won't back down. He won't lose confidence. He's got to learn to make a few adjustments. He's really hard on himself, but it's the big leagues.”
“Execution is always going to be key,” Hinch said. “There's been a walk in there a little more than usual and some big moments where he's giving up a hit that's cost him a couple runs.
“We'll get back to it. He'll pitch in San Francisco. He's definitely good enough to make adjustments and get back in the win column.”
The Tigers will have Thursday off as they travel to the desert to take on the Arizona Diamondbacks in a 3-game set beginning on Friday night.
As noted by Hinch, Tarik Skubal will make his next start against the San Francisco Giants.
Nation, do you believe Skubal will bounce back from his current skid?
