Paul Skenes’ Stellar Performance Carries Pirates to Narrow Victory
Pittsburgh Pirates' right-hander Paul Skenes once again showcased his elite pitching prowess, delivering a masterful performance against the Milwaukee Brewers. In his 11th start of the season, Skenes held the Brewers hitless through seven innings, striking out 11 and walking just one. Despite throwing 99 pitches, Manager Derek Shelton decided to lift Skenes, prioritizing the pitcher's long-term health and effectiveness.
"I wasn't going to be surprised either way, if he sent me out or pulled me," Skenes shared after the game. "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."
Skenes has now surpassed the 100-pitch mark in just four of his 11 starts, a testament to Shelton’s careful management of his young star's workload. This decision-making has sparked conversation among fans and analysts, but Shelton's strategy seems to be paying off. After his latest outing, Skenes’ ERA has impressively dipped to 1.90 from a previously stellar 2.12. His strikeout-to-walk ratio over his first 10 starts was a remarkable 6.50, and his recent performance only adds to his burgeoning reputation.
Taking over in the eighth inning, Colin Holderman immediately faced a challenge, surrendering a hit to the first batter he encountered, thus ending the combined no-hit bid. However, the Pirates' bullpen, featuring relievers like Holderman and the formidable Aroldis Chapman, managed to preserve the narrow 1-0 lead against the Brewers. Chapman's presence further solidified the bullpen's reputation as a secure finishing unit.
The Pirates currently stand at 45-48, keeping them in the thick of the National League wild-card race. With the team aiming for a playoff berth, Skenes' contributions are more critical than ever. He has rapidly ascended to become a key figure in Pittsburgh’s pitching rotation since making his MLB debut in mid-May. The young pitcher has already made history, becoming 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. The legendary Nolan Ryan is the only other pitcher to have achieved this remarkable feat.
As the Pirates' playoff push continues, the team is buoyed by optimism and belief, driven by outstanding performances like those of Skenes. Shelton’s careful management and strategic decisions, particularly regarding Skenes' workload, have been pivotal. The manager’s balancing act aims to maximize short-term results while ensuring the long-term health and development of his players.
Skenes’ words reflect his understanding of the bigger picture: "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." This trust in his teammates and management underscores the collective effort driving the Pirates toward their postseason ambitions.
In a season where every game counts, the Pirates' ability to edge out tight contests, anchored by phenomenal pitching and a resilient bullpen, could make all the difference. As Skenes continues to impress, both he and his team look poised to defy expectations and make a significant impact in the race for the playoffs.