A Showdown at Comerica Park
Prepare for an exciting matchup as two-time defending AL Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal faces off against 2022 NL Cy Young Award winner Sandy Alcantara this Sunday afternoon at Comerica Park, where the Tigers will take on the Marlins. Given their skills, runs may be scarce.
Praise from Both Sides
“Everyone knows who he is and what he can do,” Skubal remarked about Alcantara in an interview with MLB.com’s Jason Beck. Alcantara mirrored this sentiment, stating, “I think we’re going to be great on Sunday.”
Skubal’s Impressive Performance
Skubal is frequently in the spotlight when on the mound. Since the start of the 2024 season, only Paul Skenes has a lower ERA than Skubal’s 2.31, and no pitcher has accumulated more WAR than Skubal’s 13.1. However, Alcantara’s resurgence could be the highlight of this game. In his three starts, he seems to have regained his dominant form, pitching effectively and efficiently.
Alcantara’s Comeback
“I’ve been waiting for this moment, to be back in ‘Sandy Mode’,” Alcantara expressed. After missing the entire 2024 season due to Tommy John surgery, Alcantara struggled in 2025, finishing with a 5.36 ERA. Now, however, he feels like himself again, stating, “I’m a normal person again; I don’t worry about my past injuries.”
Key Improvements for Alcantara
Alcantara’s return to excellence in 2026 can be attributed to several factors. His walk rate is at a career-low 4.7%, and he’s generating ground balls at his usual rate. Moreover, he has improved significantly in hard-hit rate, moving from the 15th percentile to the 80th. His recent performance shows batters are now missing his pitches more frequently compared to last year.
Strategic Approach on the Mound
Alcantara has adjusted his strategy, increasing his four-seam fastball usage in early counts from 10.7% to 28.1%. His changeup has been particularly effective, allowing just two hits in 19 at-bats and boasting a 45.9% swing-and-miss rate. His command is exceptional, with a Location+ metric indicating his best performance to date.
Looking Forward to Sunday’s Matchup
As Sunday approaches, Skubal has shown solid form with a 2.55 ERA and 16 strikeouts over 17.2 innings. Despite not being at his peak, he remains among the top pitchers in baseball, while Alcantara is working to cement his place back in that conversation.
Contributions to this story come from MLB.com senior club reporter Jason Beck and MLB.com Marlins beat reporter Christina De Nicola.
