BOSTON — The Detroit Tigers listed left-hander Tarik Skubal as their starting pitcher for the final game of the regular season, but the reigning American League Cy Young winner isn't guaranteed to take the mound against the Boston Red Sox .

He won't pitch unless the Tigers are facing elimination.

The Tigers face the Red Sox on Sunday, Sept. 28, at Fenway Park to complete the regular season, with Skubal scheduled to make his 32nd start.

"It's pretty clear," manager A.J. Hinch said before Friday's series opener against the Red Sox. "If we need to get into the playoffs, we're going to pitch Tarik. If we've clinched a playoff berth, then we won't pitch him." JEFF SEIDEL: Tigers find what was missing vs. Guardians, just in time Expert MLB daily picks: Unique MLB betting insights

See Full Page