Skubal’s postseason rotation role is pivotal, especially after his Seattle start in this series. He provides depth as a bridge option and could influence the Tigers’ bullpen strategy if Flaherty departs early. His performance shapes Detroit’s ability to stay in striking distance late.

Skubal absorbed the two-homer blow from Polanco, a reminder that even elite arms can yield to precise, mid-middle contact in high-leverage moments. His bid for shutdown work remains intact, but Seattle’s approach exposed the need for location discipline and adjustments against a patient lineup in the later innings.

Skubal’s recent swing-and-miss pace and nine Ks in a seven-inning stretch keep him as a key Detroit weapon, aimed at puncturing Seattle’s offense and giving the Tigers a chance to pull away late.

Skubal surrendered Polanco’s two homers in a pivotal Game 2 outing, a crucial loss in the series that showcased Seattle’s power against Detroit’s ace in a high-stakes environment.

Skubal struck out nine over seven innings, tying an AL postseason mark for a left-handed starter, but Detroit still fell short as Seattle climbed in the eighth. His performance underscored his postseason ace potential, even in a loss, and provided a blueprint for how Detroit can contend in tight matchups.