Tigers Set to Welcome Back Skubal and Mize This Weekend

WHO:

MLB.com - Tarik Skubal, the reigning American League Cy Young Award winner, is returning to the Tigers.

MLB.com - Casey Mize, a right-hander and former No. 1 overall pick, is also expected to return.

MLB.com - A.J. Hinch is the manager of the Tigers.

WHAT:

MLB.com - Skubal will start against the Guardians on Saturday after 38 days on the injured list.

MLB.com - Mize is expected to start Sunday’s series finale against the Guardians, barring a setback.

MLB.com - Skubal underwent surgery to remove a loose body from his left elbow on May 6.

MLB.com - Skubal made a rehab start for High-A West Michigan, pitching five scoreless innings with six strikeouts.

MLB Trade Rumors - Skubal's return is notable as he underwent an experimental "NanoNeedle" scope procedure.

MLB Trade Rumors - Mize has a 2.27 ERA in 47 2/3 innings over nine starts this season.

WHERE:

MLB.com - The Tigers will play against the Guardians in Cleveland.

MLB.com - Skubal's last pitch was at Progressive Field in Cleveland during the 2025 AL Wild Card Series.

WHEN:

MLB.com - Skubal last pitched on April 29, 2026.

MLB.com - Skubal is set to return on Saturday.

MLB.com - Mize is likely to return on Sunday.

WHY:

MLB.com - Skubal's return is seen as a major boost for the Tigers, who were 8 1/2 games behind the division-leading White Sox.

MLB.com - The Tigers have won six of their last eight games despite an injury-depleted rotation.

HOW:

MLB.com - Skubal's surgery involved a nanoscope, which is less invasive than traditional arthroscopic surgery.

MLB.com - Skubal's rehab approach has been aggressive yet patient, focusing on gradual recovery.

(UPDATED June 11, 2026 18:10 UTC)

Tarik Skubal, the reigning American League Cy Young Award winner, is making a comeback with the Tigers and is set to start against the Guardians on Saturday after spending 38 days on the injured list. Casey Mize, a right-hander and former No. 1 overall pick, is also expected to return, likely starting Sunday’s series finale, barring any setbacks. Skubal's return is particularly significant as he underwent an experimental "NanoNeedle" scope procedure on his left elbow, and his presence is seen as a major boost for the Tigers, who have recently won six of their last eight games despite facing challenges with their rotation.