Tarik Skubal threw six strong innings in an emotional return to Detroit, and the Los Angeles Dodgers edged the Tigers 2-1 on Friday night.
The Los Angeles Dodgers defeated the Detroit Tigers 2-1 on Friday night at Comerica Park, with left-hander Tarik Skubal delivering six strong innings in an emotional return to his former club. The win improved the Dodgers to 81-54 and snapped a three-game road losing streak, while the Tigers fell to 62-72.
Dodgers’ Skubal Shines in Emotional Homecoming
Skubal, who spent the early part of his career in Detroit, was brought to tears after the game, acknowledging the difficulty of treating the start as just another outing. He departed with the lead, and the Dodgers’ bullpen made it hold up. The lefty’s performance was the backbone of a victory that pushed Los Angeles to a season-best 27 games over .500 and extended their lead atop the NL West.
Tigers’ Offense Stymied
Detroit managed only one run against the Dodgers’ pitching staff, continuing a recent offensive struggle. The Tigers have now lost two straight, including a 3-0 shutout to the Rays on Wednesday, and are 10 games under .500. With key bats Riley Greene and Kerry Carpenter on the 10-day injured list, the lineup has lacked its usual punch.
Turning Point: Skubal’s Sixth
The pivotal moment came in the sixth inning, with the Dodgers holding a narrow lead. Skubal worked out of a jam to keep the Tigers off the board, preserving the advantage and turning the game over to a bullpen that closed the door. It was a sequence that highlighted the lefty’s composure under pressure in a setting charged with emotion.
What It Means
The Dodgers, with the best record in the NL West, continue to build momentum as September approaches. The win stops a road skid that included a sweep at the hands of the Braves, where Chris Sale threw a complete-game shutout. For the Tigers, the loss deepens their slide in the AL Central, where they sit 10 games under .500 and fading from contention. Both teams are dealing with notable injuries, but Los Angeles appears better positioned to absorb them.
- Dodgers improve to 81-54, 27 games over .500.
- Tigers drop to 62-72, 10 games under .500.
- Skubal threw six innings, allowing one run or less.
- Dodgers snapped a three-game road losing streak.
- Tigers have lost two straight, including a shutout to Tampa Bay.
Next Up
The two teams meet again Saturday, August 29 at 1:10 PM ET at Comerica Park, with the Dodgers going for the series sweep. Detroit will look to even the set and avoid falling further behind in the AL Central race.
🎧 Listen daily to both teams
Beatline Sports covers every team, every day — new episodes each morning.