From Mlb · · 1m 10s
Why Skubal Stands Out
Tarik Skubal's pitching dominance comes from five key strengths.
In brief
Tarik Skubal's pitching dominance comes from five key strengths. Tarik Skubal's elite pitching is defined by his nasty stuff, pitch synergy, velocity, strategic changeup use, and high strike rates. Originally reported by Mlb.
Skubal's return to form
Skubal returned to the Majors after Tommy John surgery on July 4, 2023.
Elite pitching stats
Skubal leads MLB with a 2.47 ERA, 2.70 xERA, and 2.42 FIP.
Dominant strikeout rate
Skubal has the best strikeout-minus-walk rate at 26.7% in three-and-a-half seasons.
Nasty pitch arsenal
Skubal's Stuff+ grade of 117 ranks among the best in MLB history.
Pitch synergy
Skubal's pitches complement each other to create deception for hitters.
Seam-shifted changeup
Skubal's changeup mimics his sinker but moves differently to confuse hitters.
Lefty velocity dominance
Skubal threw the six fastest pitches by a left-handed starter in MLB history.
Changeup strategy
Skubal uses changeups 19.4% against lefties, a high rate for same-sided pitches.
High strike rate
Skubal has a 4.4% walk rate, the second best among starting pitchers.
The headline
Tarik Skubal's elite pitching is defined by his nasty stuff, pitch synergy, velocity, strategic changeup use, and high strike rates.
