Paul Skenes Faces 3.88 ERA Dip as Pirates Push Adjustments After 65-Pitch Start
Updated
Updated · MLB.com · Aug 12
Paul Skenes Faces 3.88 ERA Dip as Pirates Push Adjustments After 65-Pitch Start
3 articles · Updated · MLB.com · Aug 12
Summary
Five innings and 65 pitches against Miami underscored Skenes' slide: he allowed two runs on five hits in a 2-0 loss, his shortest start by pitch count since April 18.
Don Kelly said command, more than health, is the main concern as Skenes adjusts to hitters adjusting back; his season ERA is 3.88, fastball average has fallen to 96.9 mph from 98.2, and his walk rate has risen to 6.8%.
Tuesday's outing reflected that trend — his fastball averaged 95.7 mph and topped at 96.5, while Esteury Ruiz homered on a 95.5 mph first-pitch heater for Miami's first run.
Skenes said the early hook made sense and rejected injury concerns, while Pittsburgh, six games out of the final NL Wild Card spot, looks for sharper pitching and cleaner play down the stretch.