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By Tyler Erzberger
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For two years straight, all Tarik Skubal has received is universal praise. Even his opponents' fans had to tip their caps to the back-to-back American League Cy Young winner.
The Detroit Tigers ace was a beacon of light for a franchise looking to recapture glory after a decade-plus of darkness.
But on Monday, Skubal might want to stay away from social media, as that praise has shifted to anger and loathing from Team USA fans across the country.
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Skubal already annoyed fans pre-tournament when he announced that he would only be making a single start in the group stage against one of the weakest WBC teams, Great Britain, before rejoining the Tigers for spring training.
He then gave up a home run on his first pitch of the event, and though he shut the Brits down from there, he retired after only pitching three innings.
After a relatively disappointing performance, Skubal said he might change his mind and continue on in the WBC.
Well, he got Team USA fans' hopes up for nothing, as Skubal again announced on Monday that he'd be leaving the team on their own for the bracket stage.
"I hate it, but I'll be the first to sign up for the 2028 Olympics and the next World Baseball Classic," Skubal told a media scrum in Houston. "I don't think I'm walking away. I guess I am, but I'll be back for the semifinals and finals to enjoy the moment with the guys."
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Skubal's comments only angered American fans further, who wondered why he would even return to celebrate if he was leaving them in the heat of the tournament.
"This is the reason why nobody in the US will take this tournament seriously," one fan posted about the news on X.
"Such loser stuff," added another annoyed fan. "Being worried about your contract is fine, but don’t sign up. He was literally useless, anyone could’ve started the game against GB and been fine."
"Get this bum Skubal off my country’s WBC team!!" commented another anti-Skubal fan. "Guy is here for a free jersey and to go back home after 55 pitches. Complete traitor, doesn’t deserve to wear these colors."
Skubal said that he still doesn't feel 100% right with his decision, but no words or apologies will douse the flames on social media.
Although this will be forgotten if Team USA wins it all, if they don't, Detroit might be the only city to use its hands to clap for Skubal this season.
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