Paul Skenes Shines as Pirates Stifle Brewers, Edge Closer to Playoff Position
Pittsburgh Pirates’ right-hander Paul Skenes continues to dazzle in his rookie season. Making his 11th start of the year, Skenes delivered a masterful performance against the Milwaukee Brewers, holding them hitless through seven innings. The 6-foot-6 fireballer struck out 11 batters and allowed just one walk before being pulled after his 99th pitch by manager Derek Shelton. It was a move focused on managing Skenes’ workload, a topic that has generated significant discussion throughout the season.
"I wasn't going to be surprised either way, if he sent me out or pulled me," Skenes admitted post-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."
Despite being denied the opportunity to complete his no-hitter bid, Skenes left the field to a standing ovation, reinforcing the immense trust and hope the Pirates' faithful have placed in him. Colin Holderman took the mound in the eighth, promptly surrendering a hit to the first batter he faced, ending the combined no-hit bid. Still, Holderman managed to hold the Brewers scoreless, and with Aroldis Chapman closing, the Pirates secured a crucial 1-0 victory.
Skenes’ evolution from mid-May debutant to one of the league’s premier young pitchers has been nothing short of remarkable. Over his first 10 starts, he posted a sterling 2.12 ERA and amassed an impressive 6.50 strikeout-to-walk ratio. Following his latest outing, his ERA has now dipped to a sensational 1.90. These performances have placed him in historic company; Skenes became only the second pitcher in AL/NL history to record multiple starts of six or more innings without allowing a hit while striking out at least 11 batters, joining the legendary Nolan Ryan.
A consistent theme of Shelton's management has been the cautious handling of Skenes' pitch count. Skenes has surpassed the 100-pitch threshold in just four of his 11 starts. While some may argue for a more lenient approach given Skenes' prowess, the strategy has undeniably paid dividends in maintaining his effectiveness throughout the season.
This win against the Brewers is pivotal for the Pirates as they strive to stay in the mix for a National League wild-card spot. The team’s current record stands at 45-48, and their playoff aspirations are still very much alive. The bullpen, bolstered by the likes of Chapman and Holderman, has become a key asset in these tight contests. "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," reiterated Skenes, showcasing his confidence in his teammates.
Skenes’ standout performances have injected a palpable sense of optimism and belief into the Pirates' clubhouse. His ability to deliver under pressure has provided a much-needed boost to a team that has had its fair share of ups and downs this season. The Pirates are not just aiming for a playoff berth; they are doing so with a young ace who looks set to anchor their rotation for years to come. Shelton's decision-making, particularly concerning Skenes' workload, may continue to be a talking point, but the results speak for themselves.
With every pitch, strikeout, and dominant outing, Skenes is rewriting the narrative for the Pirates. The road ahead is challenging, but as the season progresses, Pittsburgh fans have every reason to believe that with Skenes leading the charge, October baseball is within their grasp.