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  • Smith Still Managing Ankle Injury That Hindered His 2024 Season

    Smith Still Managing Ankle Injury That Hindered His 2024 Season

    Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Will Smith has played through pain before, but the lingering ankle injury from 2024 is still a problem. Smith says he got a bone bruise in his left ankle in a June series against the New York Yankees while sliding. The injury bothered him all season.

    The Injury That Hurt Smith’s 2024 Season

    Smith said he has a bone bruise in his left ankle from a three game series in New York against the Yankees from June 7-9 last season. He rolled his ankle on a slide. He played the rest of the season without going on the IL but admits the injury probably affected his second half.

    “​​You can do all sorts of treatment and everything,” Smith said, “but the only thing that really heals it is rest. … We’re looking more into why maybe it’s not going away. Sometimes it just takes a while.”

    Bone bruises are tough to manage. Recovery time is weeks to months depending on the severity. Even after resting all offseason he still felt some discomfort early in spring training. But he felt good after playing 5 innings at catcher in his spring debut.

    How the Injury Impacted Smith’s 2024 Season

    Smith says the ankle didn’t hinder him at the plate or behind the dish but manager Dave Roberts disagrees.

    “I think last year, there were a lot of pitches he was missing,” Roberts said. “I do believe the foot was impeding the swing. I don’t know if he’s been able to manage it. But I think right now he’s in a good spot.”

    Smith’s numbers tell a story of two halves. He hit .362 with a .946 OPS in his first 27 games and then .626 OPS after the All-Star break. In the postseason he started all 16 games but struggled at the plate going 8-for-56 (.143) – though 3 of those hits were home runs.

    Was It Just the Ankle?

    Smith doesn’t think the ankle limited his hitting or catching as much as it affected his running. Instead he thinks his struggles were mechanical.

    “Just probably the swing itself, the mechanics of it,” Smith said. “Angles were fine, just coming a little bit too far inside the ball, kind of not creating room for my hands to work, stuff like that. But super technical stuff.”

    He worked on his swing over the offseason analyzing footage from when he was best and adapting to changes in his movement patterns.

    The Wear-and-Tear Factor

    As a catcher Smith faces unique physical demands. Last season he started a career high 117 games at catcher, 5th in the Majors in total games caught behind Cal Raleigh (135) and Shea Langeliers (131). Catching every day likely wore him down even if the ankle injury wasn’t the whole problem.

    Ohtani’s Return Could Help Ease the Load

    Smith has one piece of good news – Ohtani is back as a two-way player. When Ohtani isn’t pitching he’ll be the DH and Smith will get to rest by slotting in as the DH. Manager Dave Roberts acknowledged the challenge of managing Ohtani’s workload but said the team has depth.“We can still backfill with a lot of good players when he gets off-days,” Roberts said.

    Looking Ahead to 2025

    Smith’s biggest of all is philosophical about 2024. He knows it’s baseball and doesn’t worry about the past.

    “If it’s good, it’s baseball. If it’s bad, it’s baseball,” Smith said. “I have no control over it.”

    With a healthy ankle, cleaned up mechanics and Ohtani to help ease the load he’s hoping to bounce back in 2025.

  • Dodgers’ $1 Billion Salary IOUs Spark Debate: Is MLB Fair to Smaller Teams?

    Dodgers’ $1 Billion Salary IOUs Spark Debate: Is MLB Fair to Smaller Teams?

    The Los Angeles Dodgers are in the news again, but this time it’s not for their on-field performance. After a nearly perfect offseason of retaining players and signing free agents the Dodgers have deferred over $1 billion in new contracts, and the criticism of MLB’s financial model is back. While the team’s strategy is legal under MLB rules, it’s sparking new debates about competitive balance and fairness in baseball.

    How the Dodgers Built a Superteam with Deferred Money

    What Are Contract Deferrals?

    Contract deferrals allow teams to delay paying a big chunk of a player’s salary until after the contract ends. For luxury tax purposes a team’s payroll is calculated based on the average annual value (AAV) of each contract. By deferring salaries teams like the Dodgers can lower their competitive balance tax (CBT) liability.

    For example Shohei Ohtani’s 10 year, $700 million deal has $680 million in deferred payments . That reduces his yearly salary for luxury tax purposes from $70 million to just $46 million, according to FanGraphs. The Dodgers have used this strategy more than any other team and account for roughly two-thirds of the $1.5 billion in known deferred money across MLB , according to Spotrac.

    Why Do Teams Use Deferrals?

    Deferrals provide immediate financial flexibility for teams to build superteams without going over payroll thresholds. The Dodgers one of the most financially successful franchises in MLB are uniquely positioned to take advantage of this system. With sold out crowds at Dodger Stadium, big media deals and global expansion the Dodgers can afford to push billions into the future.

    “The Dodgers have been off the charts in terms of revenue generation for a very long time,” said David Carter, a sports business professor at USC. “Their market size and global reach give them the firepower to sign expensive but deferred contracts.”

    The Players’ Perspective: Sacrificing Now for Future Success

    While deferrals benefit teams by lowering tax bills players lose out by delaying payments. However many All-Stars accept these deals to help their teams build championship contenders. For example:

    • Freddie Freeman and Mookie Betts deferred a combined $172 million before Ohtani’s deal.
    • Players can offset some losses by negotiating signing bonuses which are taxed based on their state of residency not where they play games.

    Deferred payments are considered retirement income under federal tax law so players can avoid state taxes if they move after they retire.

    For example, Ohtani could save over $90 million in California taxes if he moves elsewhere after his contract ends.

    Dodgers’ Strategy Criticism

    “Buy Now, Pay Later”: Accused of Exploiting the System

    The Dodgers’ extensive use of deferrals has drawn ire from fans and analysts. Critics say they’re avoiding the competitive balance tax and creating an uneven playing field. Social media sleuths called them out on Twitter, comparing the Dodgers to services like Klarna and saying they’re making MLB a “buy now, pay later” league.

    “This is bad for the competitiveness of baseball,” said N. Jeremi Duru, a law professor and director of American University’s Sport & Society Initiative. “There’s a lot of concern that this approach eliminates parity in the sport.”

    Even with deferrals, the Dodgers will still pay a league-high $142 million in luxury taxes in 2025 , so they’re willing to spend. But small market teams can’t compete, so what’s wrong with MLB’s revenue sharing?

    The Bigger Picture: Is the MLB Financial Model Sustainable?

    Revenue Disparities in MLB

    MLB teams rely on regional sports networks (RSN) for revenue, but many RSNs are in financial trouble. The Dodgers have one of the most stable RSN deals in the league—a 25-year, $7–8 billion contract signed in 2013.

    This stability allows them to invest in current and future talent. They’re also leading the charge in MLB’s global expansion efforts, especially in Asia where stars like Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Roki Sasaki draw international attention.

    Are Superteams Good for Baseball?

    Some say super teams like the Dodgers bring more attention and value to the league. TV ratings for the 2024 World Series were up 67% from 2023 and set a record in Japan.

    “Ultimately it’s best for the league if big market teams do well,” Carter said. “But MLB has to find a balance between super teams dominating and other teams having a chance to win.”

    California Politicians Weigh In

    The controversy goes beyond baseball fans. In March 2024, California State Senator Josh Becker introduced a bill to cap deferred compensation for athletes. His bill specifically called out Ohtani’s contract, saying he could save over $90 million in taxes if he retires outside of California.“He’s dodging taxes like a curveball,” Becker said. “Everyone else has to play by the rules.”

    The bill passed the state Senate but was pulled from the Assembly. Becker will try again next year.

    Malia Cohen, California’s state controller, said the rich should pay their fair share. “More tax revenue would help all Californians.”

    Dodgers’ Strategy Criticism

    “Buy Now, Pay Later”: Accused of Exploiting the System

    The Dodgers’ extensive use of deferrals has drawn ire from fans and analysts. Critics say they’re avoiding the competitive balance tax and creating an uneven playing field. Social media sleuths called them out on Twitter, comparing the Dodgers to services like Klarna and saying they’re making MLB a “buy now, pay later” league.

    “This is bad for the competitiveness of baseball,” said N. Jeremi Duru, a law professor and director of American University’s Sport & Society Initiative. “There’s a lot of concern that this approach eliminates parity in the sport.”

    Even with deferrals, the Dodgers will still pay a league-high $142 million in luxury taxes in 2025, so they’re willing to spend. But small market teams can’t compete, so what’s wrong with MLB’s revenue sharing?

    The Bigger Picture: Is the MLB Financial Model Sustainable?

    Revenue Disparities in MLB

    MLB teams rely on regional sports networks (RSN) for revenue, but many RSNs are in financial trouble. The Dodgers have one of the most stable RSN deals in the league—a 25-year, $7–8 billion contract signed in 2013.

    This stability allows them to invest in current and future talent. They’re also leading the charge in MLB’s global expansion efforts, especially in Asia where stars like Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Roki Sasaki draw international attention.

    Are Superteams Good for Baseball?

    Some say super teams like the Dodgers bring more attention and value to the league. TV ratings for the 2024 World Series were up 67% from 2023 and set a record in Japan.

    “Ultimately it’s best for the league if big market teams do well,” Carter said. “But MLB has to find a balance between super teams dominating and other teams having a chance to win.”

    California Politicians Weigh In

    The controversy goes beyond baseball fans. In March 2024, California State Senator Josh Becker introduced a bill to cap deferred compensation for athletes. His bill specifically called out Ohtani’s contract, saying he could save over $90 million in taxes if he retires outside of California.“He’s dodging taxes like a curveball,” Becker said. “Everyone else has to play by the rules.”

    The bill passed the state Senate but was pulled from the Assembly. Becker will try again next year.

    Malia Cohen, California’s state controller, said the rich should pay their fair share. “More tax revenue would help all Californians.”

  • Shohei Ohtani’s Year 2 in Dodger Blue, Can He Deliver Another MVP-Caliber Season?

    Shohei Ohtani’s Year 2 in Dodger Blue, Can He Deliver Another MVP-Caliber Season?

    As Shohei Ohtani begins his second season with the Los Angeles Dodgers, all eyes are on the two-way wonder. After a 2024 season that was illogical and redefined baseball, Ohtani is back on the field—this time with a renewed focus on being both a pitcher and a hitter. But what can we expect from the human miracle in 2025?

    Ohtani’s Spring Training Debut Sets the Tone

    In his first at-bat of spring training, Ohtani homered into the left-field bullpen at Camelback Ranch in a 6-5 win over the Angels. He also popped up and struck out later in the game, but it was encouraging for more than the box score.

    “Regardless of the results, I think the biggest takeaway was being able to go three at-bats without any issues,” Ohtani said through interpreter Will Ireton. “Physically, I felt really good.”

    The homer was off Angels pitcher Yusei Kikuchi, who wasn’t surprised by Ohtani’s power. “He’s fine, after that home run he hit,” Kikuchi said. “He could hit it that far. I’m sure he’s going to be able to put up the same numbers this year.”

    But Dodgers manager Dave Roberts isn’t so sure Ohtani will duplicate last season’s numbers. With Ohtani returning to the mound in May, his at-bats—and stolen base attempts—are expected to go way down.

    What Can Ohtani Do for an Encore?

    Last year, Ohtani did something no one else has: 50/50. Fifty-four home runs. Fifty-nine stolen bases. League leader in runs scored, RBIs, on-base percentage, slugging percentage, and total bases. All on 731 plate appearances. Plus 76 more in the postseason.

    But he can’t repeat those numbers. Or even come close. A player who hits and pitches can’t have the same plate appearances. As Roberts said, “I don’t think he’s going to get the same number of at-bats, plate appearances, given that he’s going to be pitching. I don’t think he’s going to steal as many bases, just appreciating the fact that he does need to pitch and saving his legs.”

    But Roberts is confident in Ohtani’s productivity per plate appearance. “I think he can be as productive,” Roberts said. “And I’m sure Shohei is expecting the same thing.”

    The Left Shoulder Check-In

    Ohtani’s health is the priority, especially his left shoulder which had surgery in November to repair a torn labrum. The injury occurred during a stolen base attempt in Game 2 of the World Series, but Ohtani pitched through the next 3 games with limited success (1-11).

    If you see Ohtani moving his shoulder between pitches or at-bats, there’s no reason to worry. “It’s no pain, it’s just to check to make sure it’s okay,” Ohtani said. He said after his final at-bat Friday, “I was late and my shoulder felt great, too. So that was a good test.”

    Lessons from 2021

    To see how Ohtani will be used in 2025, look back to 2021—the last time he fully did the two-way thing. That year Ohtani made 23 starts and played in 155 games and had 639 plate appearances. If history repeats itself, Ohtani will have about 100 less plate appearances than last year.

    “The only thing we have to go by is when he was with the Angels and was doing the two-way thing with them,” Roberts said. But predicting Ohtani’s plate appearances is tricky. “I have no idea how many plate appearances Shohei will have,” Roberts said.

    Dodgers’ Superteam Status: Unbeatable or Vulnerable?

    By winning the World Series and pushing their payroll to $400 million, the Dodgers are now seen as unbeatable. But are they really?

    Stan Kasten, the Dodgers’ president, puts it in perspective: “With everything we’ve done, no one thinks we have more than 25% chance to win the World Series? That means we have 75% chance we won’t.”

    Kasten says that’s because of the uniqueness of baseball—a 162 game marathon and a high stakes postseason sprint. Unlike basketball or hockey where one superstar can carry a team, baseball demands depth across the roster and a strong farm system.“That’s why we didn’t want to leave anything on the table,” Kasten said.

    Why the Dodgers are acting smart?

    Signing Ohtani to a heavily deferred contract and adding almost $1 billion in new money since then might seem crazy to some. But for the Dodgers it’s just business.

    “If you know baseball, you won’t complain because what the Dodgers are doing is putting the best team on the field,” outfielder Teoscar Hernández said. “If they can do that, why not?”

  • Freddie Freeman Gets Hero’s Welcome, Tests Ankle in First Spring Game for Dodgers

    Freddie Freeman Gets Hero’s Welcome, Tests Ankle in First Spring Game for Dodgers

    Freddie Freeman, the reigning World Series MVP, made his long-awaited spring training debut for the Los Angeles Dodgers on Thursday, testing his surgically repaired ankle and receiving a hero’s welcome from fans. Here’s a breakdown of Freeman’s return, his recovery, and what it means for the Dodgers as they prepare for the 2025 season.

    A Hero’s Welcome at Salt River Fields

    Even in an opposing team’s ballpark, Freddie Freeman couldn’t escape the love of the fans in his Cactus League debut on Thursday. In grey pants as the visiting Dodgers, Freeman got a standing ovation before he even stepped up to the plate.

    “It’s a little different,” Freeman said afterwards. “I’m in grey pants and getting cheers.”

    Despite the attention, Freeman was himself. Down 0-2 in his first at-bat, he worked the count, waited out two pitches in the dirt and lined a fastball from Colorado Rockies righty Bradley Blalock into right field for a single. Classic Freeman. Calm under pressure, disciplined and effective.

    Adjusting to Life as a Legend

    Freeman has never been about fame. The spotlight that shines on him after the World Series is foreign to the man who just wants to do his job and go home.

    “I like it, I really do,” Freeman said. “It’s not something you chase, but you take it in stride. You enjoy what you created for people and I don’t take that for granted what we did last October.”

    But the reminders are constant. From fans telling him thank you to one super fan who tattooed his autograph on their calf, Freeman is a Dodger legend for sure.

    Manager Dave Roberts knows this better than most. As the man behind one of the most iconic plays in Boston history—a stolen base that ended the Red Sox curse in 2004—he knows how these moments stick with fans.

    “I think Freddie will hear it,” Roberts said. “He’s going to hear it every day, certainly during the baseball season, from someone who’s grateful or thankful for that moment.”

    But Freeman stays focused on the task at hand. He doesn’t let the praise get in the way of his main goal: winning another championship for the Dodgers.

    The Ankle Injury That Changed Everything

    Freeman’s swing looked good on Thursday, but his ankle is still not right. What was diagnosed as a severe sprain was actually torn ligaments and a bone spur near his Achilles tendon. Surgery followed and Freeman had to modify his usual spring prep.

    “It’s good enough,” Freeman said of the ankle. But it’s nowhere near his left one. He’s wearing tape – which he’ll likely wear through at least the All-Star break.

    Recovery requires patience – something Freeman isn’t too good with. But Roberts sees a silver lining.

    “He’s handling it as well as Freddie can handle not playing,” Roberts said. “But I don’t think it’s that bad of a thing. Given all he’s done over the last X amount of years, to manage the workload, I just don’t think it’s going to cost him that much.”

    Looking Ahead: Building Toward Opening Day

    Thursday marked Freeman’s first game action of the spring, and he went 1-for-3 with a pair of flyouts. While he’s not yet 100 percent, the plan is to ease him back into full participation. Freeman hopes to serve as the designated hitter again on Saturday before testing his ankle in the field on Sunday.

    The goal? To accumulate around 30 at-bats before the Dodgers open the season against the Chicago Cubs in Tokyo on March 18.

    “I wish it felt like the left one, but it doesn’t,” Freeman said. “I’ll fight tooth and nail to be in the lineup every single day, but I do understand keeping me on the field as much as they possibly can.”

    That might mean taking a day off or two in April—a concession Freeman isn’t thrilled about but recognizes as necessary.

  • Champion Dodgers and Struggling White Sox Share Spring Park in 2025

    Champion Dodgers and Struggling White Sox Share Spring Park in 2025

    As spring training gets underway in Arizona, two teams with very different stories find themselves in the same place. The Los Angeles Dodgers, fresh off their eighth World Series title, are in the spotlight while the Chicago White Sox, who lost a record 121 games last year, are in rebuild mode. Despite their different paths, both teams call Camelback Ranch home in February and March so it’s a fun contrast as they prepare for 2025.

    A Tale of Two Teams

    Dodgers: Proven Winners

    The Dodgers’ clubhouse is a Who’s Who of MLB All-Stars and their morning workouts have draws 1,000+ fans to watch. With a $400M+ payroll (highest in baseball) they’re looking to repeat as champions. Their offseason moves have kept them in the news and they’re one of the most successful franchises in sports.

    White Sox: Rebuilding from Scratch

    On the other side of Camelback Ranch the White Sox are in full rebuild mode. After losing 121 games in 2024 they’re developing young talent and trying to get the clubhouse back to winning. General Manager Chris Getz acknowledges the struggles but sees the shared facility as an opportunity. “It’s great to be matched up with a team that won the World Series,” he said. “How do we beat them? How can we compete?”

    While the Dodgers draw thousands of fans the White Sox played a recent spring game in front of 2,636 and there’s still optimism about the future from the prospects.

    The Upside of Sharing Space

    Learning from Others

    Sharing Camelback Ranch with the Dodgers is a learning experience for the White Sox. GM Chris Getz loves their approach to player development. “They have a small market mentality even though they have big market money,” he said. “It’s not just spending; they do a lot of little things.” Seeing how the Dodgers do things gives the White Sox ideas for building a foundation.

    Contrast is Motivation

    The contrast between the two teams is motivation for the White Sox. While the Dodgers are celebrating, the White Sox want to turn things around. “There’s no time to complain,” Getz said. “We’ve got our hands dirty and got to work.”

    Young players like shortstop Colson Montgomery and top pitching prospects Noah Schultz and Hagen Smith are part of the long term plan. They won’t be in big league camp this year but they’re a sign of things to come.

    Key Players to Watch

    Dodgers’ Stars

    • Yoshinobu Yamamoto: The $325 million ace made waves with his first bullpen session of the spring.
    • Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, and Shohei Ohtani: These perennial All-Stars anchor a roster built to win now.

    White Sox’s Emerging Talent

    • Luis Robert Jr. and Andrew Vaughn: Holdovers from last season looking to rebound.
    • Colson Montgomery: A power-hitting shortstop who homered in the team’s first spring game.
    • Noah Schultz and Hagen Smith: Top pitching prospects expected to anchor the rotation in the coming years.

    FAQs About the Shared Spring Training Experience

    Why do the Dodgers and White Sox share Camelback Ranch?

    Camelback Ranch has been the spring training home of the Dodgers and White Sox since 2009. It’s located in Glendale, Arizona so both teams get to enjoy the sunshine.

    How does sharing a facility impact the White Sox?

    Being around a winning team like the Dodgers is inspiring and teaches professionalism and player development for the rebuilding White Sox.

    What are the White Sox challenges this season?

    After losing 121 games in 2024, the White Sox need to balance young talent with on-field improvement. Growing pains are inevitable but progress will be measured by development not wins.

    Are there any bright spots for the White Sox this spring?

    Yes! The White Sox have added veteran free agents like Joey Gallo and Brandon Drury to mentor the young players. Plus their farm system is top 5 in baseball so there’s hope for the future.

    Will the White Sox ever be like the Dodgers?

    It’ll take time but the White Sox are committed to building through their farm system and making smart investments. Learning from teams like the Dodgers will help them get to contention faster.

  • Los Angeles Dodgers’ Top 3 Tallest Players: Who Stands Out?

    Los Angeles Dodgers’ Top 3 Tallest Players: Who Stands Out?

    The Los Angeles Dodgers have some of the biggest stars in Major League Baseball, players whose size and skill create a whole new level of impact on the field. These athletes dominate with their physical presence and bring special talents that make them fan favorites. Here are the top 3 tallest players on the Dodgers roster—Freddie Freeman, Shohei Ohtani, and Blake Snell—and how they’ve become legends of the game.

    1. Freddie Freeman: The Pulse of the Dodgers

    Standing Tall at 6’5″

    Born September 12, 1989, Freddie Freeman is more than the Dodgers’ first baseman—he’s the anchor of the team. At 6’5″, Freeman uses his height to swing smooth and powerfully and be one of the best left-handed hitters in the league.

    A Career of Consistency

    Freeman made his MLB debut 2010 with the Atlanta Braves and quickly rose to the top. His breakout season was 2013 and he hasn’t looked back since. After winning the World Series MVP for his walk-off grand slam, Freeman joined the Dodgers 2022 and brought leadership and consistency to the lineup.

    In 2024, Freeman hit .282, 22 HRs and 89 RBIs. Through the tough times he proved again why he’s one of the most reliable players in baseball. Off the field he’s friendly and professional and has earned the respect of teammates and fans so he’s a shoo-in for the Hall of Fame.

    2. Shohei Ohtani: The Two Way Phenom

    6’4” of Dominance

    Born on July 5, 1994, Shohei Ohtani is 6’4” and has changed the game for two-way players in MLB. Since 2018 he’s been wowing fans with his ability to hit and pitch.

    Breaking Records and Barriers

    In 2021, he was the first ever to be an All-Star at two positions. In 2024, he hit 54 home runs and stole 50 bases, the first player to ever do so. His 10 year, $700 million contract with the Dodgers solidifies him as one of the best in the game. Whether he’s hitting bombs or striking out batters he’s got everyone’s attention worldwide.

    3. Blake Snell: The Ace on the Mound

    Tall and Imposing at 6’4″

    Blake Ashton Snell born December 4, 1992 is the tall and imposing presence on the mound at 6’4″. Drafted by the Tampa Bay Rays, Snell has been in the bigs for 9 seasons before joining the Dodgers in 2025.

    Accurate and Tough

    Snell’s highlights include being a 2 time Cy Young Award winner and a 2023 All-MLB First Team. In 2023 alone he threw 180 innings, went 14-9 with 234 Ks and a 2.25 ERA. With his smooth lefty delivery Snell is a big asset on the mound for the Dodgers.

    He’s accurate and tough, opponents never know what to expect from him.

    Why These Giants Stand Out?

    More Than Just Height

    Their size may make them physically big, but it’s their skills and work ethic that really set them apart. From Freeman’s constant power at the plate to Ohtani’s historic versatility and Snell’s dominance on the mound, these three take the Dodgers to new heights.

    Inspiring Everybody

    Beyond the numbers and awards, they inspire fans with their passion and grind for greatness. They’re the embodiment of the game, proving hard work and talent can rewrite the rules of baseball.

    FAQs About the Tallest Dodgers Players

    Who are the tallest players on the Los Angeles Dodgers?

    The top three tallest players are Freddie Freeman (6’5″), Shohei Ohtani (6’4″), and Blake Snell (6’4″).

    What makes Freddie Freeman special?

    Freeman’s got a smooth lefty swing, defensive skills at first and consistent offense. And he’s a fan favorite because of his leadership and character.

    Why is Shohei Ohtani considered a unique player?

    Ohtani is a two-way phenom, excelling as both a designated hitter and a pitcher. He made history in 2024 by hitting 54 home runs and stealing 50 bases in the same season.

  • Detroit Tigers Tab Tarik Skubal as Opening Day Starter: Why It Was a No-Brainer

    Detroit Tigers Tab Tarik Skubal as Opening Day Starter: Why It Was a No-Brainer

    The Detroit Tigers have officially named Tarik Skubal as their Opening Day starter for 2025 and I am not surprised. The reigning AL Cy Young and Triple Crown winner will start on March 27 against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium in LA. The game is at 7:10 ET and on ESPN.

    Manager A.J. Hinch didn’t even hesitate to announce it during today’s spring training game against the Minnesota Twins. “Let me break news on the broadcast today,” Hinch said with a grin. “I think we should name him the Opening Day starter.”

    Why Tarik Skubal Was the Only Choice

    AL Cy Young Winner

    Skubal was a slam dunk after his 2024 season. He had a 2.39 ERA, 228 Ks in 192 innings and was the AL leader in wins (18), ERA (2.39) and Ks (228). He’s the first AL pitcher to win the Triple Crown in a full season since Justin Verlander in 2011.

    “He doesn’t have to be anything different than what he is today and that’s pounding the zone with multiple pitches,” Hinch said during the broadcast. “We’re glad the Cy Young award shows how good he is.”

    Spring Training

    Skubal’s already looked good in spring training. In his first outing he went two scoreless, one hit, zero walks and one K. He faced seven hitters and threw 14 of 19 pitches for strikes. He used all five of his pitches: six sinkers, five changeups, four sliders, three four-seamers and one curveball. His fastball hit 100.1 mph and he’s ready for the show.

    “It was a good work day,” Skubal said. “Threw strikes. That’s all you’re trying to do early in camp.”

    Skubal’s Thoughts on the Honor

    For Skubal, being the Opening Day starter is an honor and a test. “You don’t know how many Opening Days you’re gonna start in your career,” he said. “And it’s an honor to be able to start two of them.”

    This year though, it’s bigger. Instead of facing the Chicago White Sox (who he started against last year), Skubal will be facing one of the best lineups in baseball—the Los Angeles Dodgers. The defending champs have a whole team of stars fresh off a World Series win over the New York Yankees.

    “It’ll be fun in their park too,” Skubal said. “So it’ll be fun. I’m looking forward to it.”

    Despite the tough matchup, Skubal is focused on getting better in spring training. “You can’t look too far ahead,” he added. “Right now, my focus is on getting better every day and getting ready for the season.”

    How Skubal Fits into the Team

    The Ace of the Staff

    Skubal isn’t just the Opening Day starter—he’s the staff. As Hinch said, “We go as he goes.” Last year was proof of that as Skubal’s consistency and leadership carried the whole team. With another big year from their ace, the Tigers hope to build on that and make a run at the playoffs in 2025.

    The Dodgers

    The Dodgers are a tough matchup for any pitcher, let alone an Opening Day starter. They have some of the best hitters in the game in Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman and Shohei Ohtani. But if anyone can step up to the task it’s Skubal. His ability to mix and command makes him one of the few pitchers who can shut down that lineup.