The Detroit Tigers are facing a stretch without their ace, Tarik Skubal, but there’s reason for cautious optimism. While the team has kept a tight lid on a return timeline, an experienced orthopedic surgeon has weighed in with a potential window that could give Tigers fans something to root for.

Skubal is set to undergo surgery to remove loose bodies from his left elbow—a minimally invasive procedure that clears out small fragments of cartilage and bone. Dr. Kevin Farmer, speaking to the Detroit News, described it as “probably one of the better surgeries to have in the shorter term.” He added, “Take out the pieces, do a little cleanup. Short-term, you can bounce back relatively quickly.” The procedure itself is quick, often lasting under an hour, which adds to the positive outlook.

But recovery still demands patience. Farmer outlined a typical timeline: six to eight weeks of physical therapy to reduce swelling and restore range of motion, followed by another six to eight weeks of throwing and strength building before game action. Under the best-case scenario, that puts Skubal back on the mound by early August. A more conservative path could push his return to late August or early September.

For a Tigers team navigating a critical stretch without its top arm, even a late-summer return offers a glimmer of hope. Skubal has been a dominant force, and his presence down the stretch could be a game-changer.

However, Farmer also noted a longer-term concern: “The bigger question is the long-term issue. It’s a sign of some wear and tear.” Loose bodies in the elbow are common among pitchers, and many throw without even knowing they have them. But when symptoms appear, they signal that the joint has seen some miles. For now, though, the focus is on a smooth recovery and a return to form.

Tigers fans will be watching closely, but the early signs suggest Skubal could be back in time to make a difference when it matters most.