Tarik Skubal hits 100 K's and Javier Báez gets revenge as the Tigers beat the Cubs 4-3 on June 7, 2025. See how Skubal made history in the win.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
What a day to be at Comerica Park! The sun is shining, the bats are cracking, and the Detroit Tigers are putting on a show. In a thrilling back-and-forth battle, the Tigers are currently holding a 4-3 lead over the Chicago Cubs, thanks to some serious power from Spencer Torkelson and a clutch, go-ahead single from none other than Javier Báez against his old club. But the offense is only half the story on a day when ace Tarik Skubal officially cemented his dominance.
Tarik Skubal's 13.14 strikeout-to-walk ratio... would be the best ever for a qualified pitcher if maintained.
Let's give it up for the reigning AL Cy Young winner, Tarik Skubal. Today, he notched his 100th strikeout of the 2025 season, a testament to the absolute tear he's been on. It's not just the strikeouts; it's the surgical precision. With a 10-2 record and a sparkling 2.22 ERA, Skubal is making a strong case for a repeat. His strikeout-to-walk ratio is an eye-watering 13.14, a number that isn't just great, it's potentially historic. We are watching a master at work every fifth day, and today was another masterpiece.
While Skubal handled business on the mound, the offense provided the fireworks. The biggest moment came from Javier Báez, who delivered a massive two-run single to push the Tigers ahead. You know that had to feel good against his former team. Not to be outdone, Spencer Torkelson launched a solo shot, his raw power on full display. And let's not forget the rookie, Colt Keith, who quietly extended his hitting streak today. His consistency at the plate has been a huge boost, proving the youth movement is paying dividends.
It wasn't all about pitching and hitting. Riley Greene reminded everyone why he's a Gold Glove contender with a spectacular, highlight-reel leaping catch that robbed a sure extra-base hit and sent the Comerica Park crowd into a frenzy. Plays like that win ballgames. Speaking of winning, the good news kept coming off the field. Key reliever Alex Lange, recovering from lat surgery, threw a bullpen session today. His return, hopefully sometime this season, would be a massive reinforcement for the back end of the bullpen.
With the Tigers poised to take the game and the series, the energy is electric. They're getting it done in every phase: dominant starting pitching, clutch hitting from veterans and rookies alike, and web gems in the outfield. As they look to complete the sweep tomorrow, and with key pieces like Alex Lange working their way back, it's clear this team is building something special. The summer in Detroit is heating up, and so are the Tigers.