The Detroit Tigers have received a tough blow to their rotation, as ace Tarik Skubal is set for left elbow surgery and will be sidelined indefinitely. Manager A.J. Hinch broke the news to reporters Monday in Detroit, confirming that the procedure will remove loose bodies from the elbow.

Skubal, a two-time Cy Young Award winner and two-time All-Star, was slated to start against the Boston Red Sox on Monday night at Comerica Park. However, after feeling discomfort in his elbow during Sunday's preparations, tests revealed the issue. Tyler Holton will step in as the starter against Boston.

This isn't the first sign of trouble for the left-hander this season. During a 4-3 loss to the Atlanta Braves on Wednesday, Skubal was seen shaking and holding his arm in the seventh inning. Despite the discomfort, he powered through, allowing just five hits and two runs over seven innings.

Through his first seven starts of the season, Skubal posted a stellar 3-2 record with a 2.70 ERA. His dominance has been a hallmark of his career, leading the American League with a 2.39 ERA in 2024 and a 2.21 ERA in 2025. His absence leaves a significant gap in the Tigers' rotation as they push for contention.

The Tigers (18-17) enter Monday's game riding a hot streak, having won three of their last four. They sit tied for first place in the American League Central alongside the Cleveland Guardians (18-17). The Red Sox (13-21) will be looking to capitalize on Skubal's absence when first pitch is thrown at 6:10 p.m. EDT.