Pirates' Manager Has Surprising Explanation for Paul Skenes' Struggles
Summary
Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes has struggled this season compared to his first two years, despite still having a strong fastball speed and strikeout rate. Pirates manager Don Kelly says the league is adjusting to Skenes, and Skenes needs to make changes to improve his control and performance.Key Facts
- Paul Skenes is a pitcher for the Pittsburgh Pirates.
- In 2026, Skenes has a 9-10 record and a 3.96 earned run average (ERA).
- His fastball speed dropped slightly from 98.1 mph in 2025 to 96.8 mph in 2026.
- Skenes’ walk rate increased from 5.7% in 2025 to 6.8% in 2026, indicating more batters reached base on walks.
- Skenes won a National League Cy Young Award last year and was Rookie of the Year two years ago.
- Manager Don Kelly says Skenes is trying to match the high standards he set early in his career but must improve his control.
- Skenes is adjusting his pitching style, including his arm angle and pitch selection.
- Despite some struggles, Skenes' stats suggest he is not far from returning to top form.
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