Tarik Skubal made his Dodgers debut on Tuesday night against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field, allowing two runs on four hits over six innings while striking out six and walking two. The Los Angeles Dodgers lost 5-1, extending their losing streak to five games.
Skubal, the reigning American League Cy Young Award winner, was acquired from the Detroit Tigers in a trade deadline deal. His first pitch as a Dodger—a 96.3 mph sinker—set the tone, striking out Cubs MVP candidate Pete Crow-Armstrong for the first out of the game. He retired the first six batters he faced, aided by defensive plays from center fielder Andy Pages and right fielder Kyle Tucker.
The Dodgers’ offense struggled against Cubs starter Javier Assad, managing only a Kyle Tucker home run before going hitless against the bullpen. Dansby Swanson’s third-inning home run accounted for Skubal’s first run allowed, while an unlucky bounce and a swinging bunt later brought in two more runs.
Cubs fans greeted Skubal with boos upon his arrival at Wrigley Field, reflecting broader fan sentiment toward the Dodgers’ acquisition of the star pitcher. A sports betting site flew an upside-down banner over the stadium reading “THE DODGERS RUINED BASEBALL” hours before the game.
Skubal’s performance was praised by Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, who noted his ability to execute pitches under pressure. “He gave us a quality start, which is what we needed,” Roberts said. “The offense just didn’t come through.”
The loss marked the Dodgers’ fifth consecutive defeat and dropped their record to 3-7 in their last 10 games. The team’s pitching rotation, now bolstered by Skubal, remains a focal point as they aim to reverse their recent struggles. Skubal’s contract expires after this season, making him a potential free agent in the offseason.