A.J. Hinch delivers strong postgame message after Tigers’ win over Cubs behind Skubal’s dominance

The Detroit Tigers didn’t just win another game — they made a statement. Under the national spotlight at Comerica Park, they outlasted the Chicago Cubs with a performance that looked less like an upset and more like a continuation of a clear identity: this team knows exactly who it is.

Manager A.J. Hinch wasn’t interested in narratives of sudden resurgence or surprise success. Following the win, he addressed the media with the conviction of someone who believes his team has long since shed the label of underdog. “Idon’t know how much we have to rise,” Hinch told The Detroit Free Press. “I appreciate the thought of raising the bar, but the bar is pretty high around here.”

From the dugout to the field, Detroit has built something sustainable. With elite pitching, timely hitting, and a growing swagger, the Tigers are no longer climbing — they’ve already arrived.

Skubal’s command sets the tone

Tarik Skubal extended his dominant season with another efficient outing, going 7.2 innings while allowing just one earned run. Skubal’s presence on the mound continues to anchor a rotation that has quickly become one of the most reliable in the American League.

The win was another example of how Detroit is thriving through performance, not projections. Skubal wasn’t the only standout. Spencer Torkelson delivered a go-ahead home run, while Justyn-Henry Malloy marked his return to the majors with a blast in his first at-bat. A string of two-out hits in the fifth inning gave the Tigers the cushion they needed.

Hinch’s comments

Hinch’s postgame comments weren’t just about this win — they were about Detroit’s internal expectations. “I really appreciate our players bringing it every day,” he added, hinting at a culture that isn’t seeking outside validation. The bar isn’t being raised — it was already high, set behind closed doors, long before this team started grabbing national attention.

Trust continues to be a theme. In a critical spot, Hinch turned to Will Vest to face Seiya Suzuki with the game on the line. Vest earned his 10th save, showcasing the bullpen’s depth and his own reliability in high-leverage moments.

The Chicago Cubs, meanwhile, were left searching for answers. Their inability to hold momentum only highlighted the contrast between a club chasing stability and one that’s already found it.