Tarik Skubal made an emotional return to Detroit as a Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher, weeks after a blockbuster trade ended his time with the Tigers. His appearance mattered because he returned as a two-time Cy Young winner to face his former club at Comerica Park, where supporters acknowledged his contribution with a tribute and standing ovation.

The Dodgers acquired Skubal in exchange for outfielder Zyhir Hope and pitchers Brady Smith and River Ryan. He received a mixed reaction when taking the mound, briefly encountered a PitchCom problem, and conceded a leadoff double to former team-mate Gleyber Torres before striking out two batters and completing the opening inning without allowing a run.