Paul Skenes Ends Nine‑Game Losing Streak with Dominant Victory

**Paul Skenes** broke a nine‑game losing streak on **July 2, 2026** when he delivered six innings of two‑run baseball, leading Pittsburgh to a 12‑4 win over Atlanta at PNC Park.

Skenes, the reigning NL Cy Young winner, allowed just two earned runs on eight hits, issued one walk and struck out four. The Pirates supplied heavy run support, collecting 14 hits and driving in runs with a 6‑for‑17 performance with runners in scoring position. Ryan O'Hearn exploded for three homers and ten RBIs, the most ever by a Pirate in a single game.

The start lifted Skenes’ record to 6‑8 with a 3.62 ERA and a 3.03 FIP after 18 outings this season. Until now his starts often coincided with defeats, but the offensive outburst gave him a decisive edge. The performance shows he can still dominate when backed by a hot lineup, a sign the team hopes will carry into the All‑Star break.

Pittsburgh rode the momentum into a three‑game winning streak, taking four of their last five contests. The offense’s 14‑for‑37 showing highlighted a balanced attack, while the bullpen held the lead after Skenes exited. Manager Derek Shelton praised the collective effort, noting the team finally clicked on both sides of the ball.

The Pirates will hand the ball to Jared Jones in the series finale on **Wednesday, July 3**. If Skenes can keep the run support flowing, he could improve his win‑loss column before the All‑Star pause. For Skenes, maintaining the low ERA while the offense stays productive could solidify his status as the league’s top pitcher heading into the second half.

Atlanta fell to 5‑9 in the series, while Pittsburgh climbed to 48‑55 overall, narrowing the gap with the NL Central leader. A win for Skenes could spark a surge that pushes the Pirates into playoff contention, especially if the offense continues to produce at the rate shown on July 2.

The game also marked a statistical milestone: O'Hearn’s ten RBIs set a new franchise record, underscoring how a single explosive night can tilt a pitcher’s fate. Skenes’ ability to stay composed under that pressure bodes well for his future starts.

Pittsburgh’s fans left PNC Park buzzing, hopeful that the combination of elite pitching and potent hitting will become the new norm. The next few weeks will test whether this breakthrough is a one‑off or the start of a sustained climb for **Paul Skenes** and the Pirates.