The Detroit Tigers picked up a big win on Saturday, and it had meaning on multiple levels.
But maybe the most underrated is this: Tarik Skubal doesn't have to pitch on Sunday.
The Tigers originally had their ace lined up to pitch Game 162 against the Boston Red Sox, and for good reason.
On the season, Skubal is 13-6 with a 2.21 ERA. He has struck out 241 batters in 195.1 innings pitched.
But now, Skubal isn't needed against Boston.
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Why isn't Tarik Skubal pitching today?
Tarik Skubal isn't pitching on Sunday against the Red Sox because the Tigers don't need him to.
The results of Saturday's action meant the Tigers have clinched a playoff spot.
They still have the AL Central Division title to play for, but whether they win the division or are the final Wild Card team, they're in the postseason.
And it's more important for Skubal to pitch Game 1 of the Wild Card Round than to pitch for home-field advantage but then not be available to make that matter.
So Skubal will get some extra rest, and he'll be a tough matchup for whoever sees him to open the postseason this week.
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