Skenes' Stellar Performance Keeps Pirates' Playoff Hopes Alive
In a pivotal matchup against the Milwaukee Brewers, Pittsburgh Pirates' right-hander Paul Skenes delivered yet another masterful performance, holding the Brewers hitless through seven impressive innings. Skenes, who made his 11th start of the season, notched 11 strikeouts while allowing just one walk.
The 21-year-old phenom was lifted after throwing 99 pitches, a decision overseen by Manager Derek Shelton who has been carefully managing Skenes’ workload. The Pirates’ bullpen, featuring relievers Colin Holderman and Aroldis Chapman, took over with a slim 1-0 lead to preserve, ultimately sealing a victory for Pittsburgh.
Despite being pulled after seven innings, Skenes expressed confidence in his bullpen. "I wasn't going to be surprised either way, if he sent me out or pulled me," Skenes said. "We have Holderman and (Aroldis) Chapman at the back end of our bullpen, so I think those are probably, I think, two of the best guys in the league so I have a ton of trust in them to finish it. Obviously, in a 1-0 game you want to stay in there, you want to finish it, but the volume's getting up there a little bit so I get it."
The combined no-hit bid ended in the eighth inning when Holderman surrendered a hit to the first batter he faced. Nevertheless, the Pirates' bullpen held strong, preserving their lead and securing the win. This triumph boosted the Pirates’ record to 45-48, keeping their National League wild-card aspirations alive and well.
Skenes' latest outing lowered his ERA to an impressive 1.90, a testament to his exceptional performance since his mid-May debut. His previous 10 starts boasted a 2.12 ERA with an impressive 6.50 strikeout-to-walk ratio. Skenes' consistent dominance on the mound places him among elite company. In fact, he is the second pitcher in American League/National League history to record multiple starts of six or more innings without allowing a hit while striking out at least 11 batters—a feat previously accomplished only by the legendary Nolan Ryan.
Manager Derek Shelton's prudent decision-making regarding Skenes’ pitch count has certainly been a topic of conversation, but it has also proven to be a wise approach. Skenes has surpassed the 100-pitch threshold in just four of his 11 starts, ensuring that the young star remains effective and healthy throughout the season. "We have Holderman and (Aroldis) Chapman at the back end of our bullpen, so I think those are probably, I think, two of the best guys in the league so I have a ton of trust in them to finish it," Skenes reiterated, highlighting the strength and reliability of the Pirates’ relievers.
The Pirates’ playoff push has fostered a sense of optimism and belief within the organization. With Skenes leading the rotation and a capable bullpen behind him, Pittsburgh’s postseason ambitions appear increasingly attainable. The impressive showing against the Brewers is a testament to the team’s resilience and determination.
Skenes’ first 11 starts have not only been noteworthy but also crucial in positioning the Pirates as legitimate contenders. As the season progresses, the team’s continued success will likely hinge on the strategic management of Skenes’ workload and the reliable performance of the bullpen.
For now, Pirates fans can revel in the brilliance of Paul Skenes, whose remarkable season has reignited hope for a playoff berth. With every start, he continues to etch his name in the annals of baseball history, all while propelling his team ever closer to October glory.