The Two-Time AL Cy Young Winner Is Throwing Bullpens Less Than Two Weeks After Surgery, And Seattle Just Felt A Familiar Sting

Alright, Emerald City, let's be real. Watching our Mariners drop an 8-3 decision to the Padres last night at T-Mobile Park? That stings. It's tough when you're trying to find that rhythm, and then you hear about what's going on elsewhere in the league. Like, across the country, a *two-time AL Cy Young winner* who just had elbow surgery is already out there throwing bullpens. Less than two weeks, folks. Talk about a gut punch when our guys are trying to figure things out.

Tarik Skubal's Recovery Is Almost Unbelievable

You heard that right. Tarik Skubal, the Detroit Tigers ace who has absolutely dominated the American League for the past two seasons, went under the knife not even two weeks ago to get a loose body removed from his elbow. And get this: the dude is already feeling "symptom-free" and slinging pitches in bullpen sessions. He even threw a full array of pitches on Monday, like it was a normal pregame workout! He said himself he didn't even realize how much that loose body was impacting him until it was gone. His recovery has gone so smoothly that they called him back from Lakeland, Florida, to continue his rehab. It's wild to think he's feeling *this* good, *this* fast.

The Ace Mentality, But No Timetable Yet

Now, while Skubal feels "really good" and wants to "let it go," he's been instructed to hold back on the full velocity. Can you imagine the frustration, feeling that good but having to pump the brakes? That's the kind of competitor he is, the kind that wins back-to-back Cy Youngs. This was only his second bullpen since the surgery, and he wasn't throwing 100%, but just being out there so quickly is insane. He's on a steady progression for a rehab start, but the Tigers still don't have a firm timetable for his return. Skubal admitted he'd love to have that answer too, hoping it'll be "sooner rather than later." Manager A.J. Hinch also commented on the situation, keeping cards close. It's a reminder of the kind of electric arms other teams have coming back strong, while our M's just fell to 22-26. Look, our Mariners need to shake off that Padres loss. We've got to find that fire. Cal Raleigh behind the plate and Julio Rodriguez in center field are battling, but the whole squad needs to step up. When we see guys like Skubal making incredible comebacks, it highlights the level of play we're up against every single night. We need to regroup and come out swinging next time out. Let's get it, Seattle!

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.