Dunedin, Fla. — What the Tigers have in Tarik Skubal is akin to what dog-owners have in their new pedigreed puppy.
A lot of work ahead. And a lot of fun watching as some blessed DNA takes over and creates a certain, well, magnificence.
Skubal has the physical stuff down. He affirmed as much Sunday at TD Ballpark, where he worked five innings against the Blue Jays. He allowed a lone run, three hits, and one walk, all while striking out three in what turned out to be a nine-inning, 4-4 tie, after Toronto scored three runs in the ninth against Beau Burrows.