What happened: The Dodgers acquired Tarik Skubal 27 days ago in a deadline trade. Friday's game is scheduled for 6:40 p.m. ET.
Why it matters: Los Angeles enters at 80-54, while Detroit is 62-71. Skubal can become a free agent after the season, adding contract context to the reunion.
By the numbers: Skubal enters 8-7 with a 2.91 ERA, 0.95 WHIP and 120⅔ innings in 2026.
What to watch: Skubal's workload and effectiveness against his former club will shape the opener.