DETROIT – In a world where 90-plus mph throws are commonplace, it’s hard to imagine a “hit” from the heart would bring a locker room to tears.
Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Tarik Skubal shook the organization when he shared the most personal news of his life: his 4-year-old son had just been diagnosed with a rare, life-threatening illness. The devastating news left the team, coaching staff and reporters in attendance in tears.
“I’m a player. I’ve learned to handle pressure. But nothing in this world can prepare you for the moment when the doctor tells you… your child is fighting for his life,” Skubal choked up.
Immediately after the sharing, social media was flooded with prayers, and images of Skubal clutching his helmet and wiping away tears on the bench went viral at a dizzying speed. From teammates, fans to opponents who have faced him on the field, all sent messages of love and hope to his family.
In an emotional post, Skubal recalled the time he and his wife spent every night lying awake by his hospital bed, each time the boy convulsed in pain, each rapid breath that made them feel like they were about to collapse.
“He was my little warrior,” he said. “Every time I stepped on the field, I was going to throw not only for the team, but for my son, who was fighting the biggest battle of his life.”
Tigers head coach A.J. Hinch couldn’t hide his emotions: “We’re not just losing a great pitcher in the near future. We’re losing a father who’s broken but still standing. That’s the true definition of courage.”
The Tigers confirmed that Skubal will take an indefinite leave of absence to focus on his family and son. The fundraisers have taken off across social media, with the hashtag #SkubalStrong becoming the new MLB meme in recent days.
The boy – known to the community through a few cute appearances in the stands – has now become the center of an unprecedented wave of solidarity among American baseball fans. Many rival teams such as the Yankees, Red Sox, and even superstars from the NFL and NBA have sent their support.
“I just want one thing,” Skubal said in the final moments of the sharing session. “To see him healthy, smiling, and one day… throwing a ball with me on the field.”