Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal has been named the American League Cy Young Award winner for the second consecutive season, earning the honor over finalists Garrett Crochet of the Chicago White Sox and Hunter Brown of the Houston Astros. The announcement was made on Thursday by the Baseball Writers’ Association of America.
Skubal’s back-to-back wins mark the first time an American League pitcher has repeated as Cy Young recipient since Jacob deGrom won consecutive titles in the National League in 2018 and 2019. Skubal, a left-hander, continued his dominance on the mound throughout the season, posting consistently strong performances that anchored the Tigers’ starting rotation.
Over the course of the 2025 season, Skubal was a reliable presence for Detroit, making regular starts and showcasing a mix of control and power that made him one of the league’s most effective pitchers. His season was highlighted by a low earned run average, high strikeout totals, and an ability to limit baserunners — all key factors in influencing voters.
Garrett Crochet and Hunter Brown both had strong cases, with impressive individual seasons for their respective teams. However, Skubal’s overall consistency and leadership on the mound gave him the edge in the voting.
This recognition places Skubal in an elite group of pitchers who have managed to win multiple Cy Young Awards, and it solidifies his status as one of the top arms in Major League Baseball. His performance continued to be instrumental in helping reshape the Tigers’ pitching identity and build momentum for the team moving forward.
Skubal’s achievement is also notable in the broader context of the Tigers’ organization. It represents a significant milestone for the franchise as they look to return to postseason contention. His rise through the Tigers’ system and sustained success at the major league level reflect both his talent and the team’s development efforts.
