Tarik Skubal Begins Catch Program After Left Elbow Surgery

Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal has begun a throwing program just over a week after undergoing elbow surgery, marking an encouraging early step in his recovery. The two-time defending American League Cy Young Award winner had a minimally invasive procedure on May 6 to remove a loose body from his left elbow.

Manager A.J. Hinch confirmed the development on Friday, stating that Skubal has started playing catch daily. Hinch described this as a significant progression to the next phase of rehabilitation. The manager said he has been in regular contact with Skubal, who reported feeling positive about the process. Hinch relayed that the pitcher said the throwing does not feel weird, awkward, or guarded, which he characterized as a great sign both mentally and physically. The team remains in consultation with Dr. Neal ElAttrache, who performed the surgery, to ensure the protocol is followed given the unusually quick initiation of throwing.

The Tigers initially placed the 29-year-old left-hander on the 15-day injured list effective May 4, with a projected recovery timeline of two to three months. The injury first presented as irritation during Skubal's last start on April 29 against the...