Paul Skenes Seeks Third Straight Win vs. Guardians on Sunday

Paul Skenes Returns to Mound, Seeks Third Straight Win vs. Guardians

CLEVELAND: After a six-day break, Paul Skenes returns to the mound on Sunday afternoon in Cleveland, looking to continue his recent resurgence and lead the Pirates to their third straight win.

What Happened Last Time Out?

Skenes looked to be in Cy Young-contending form against the Brewers to finish out the first half. Last Sunday, Skenes allowed two runs in 5 1/3 innings as the Bucs' offense built him a massive lead in the fourth inning. A 10-run frame lasted 36 minutes and Skenes didn't have to do much as he exited after only 82 pitches.

Why It Matters for Paul Skenes

Skenes has been on a roll since the start of July, returning to the win column in his previous two starts with a pair of blowout victories. The Pirates seek their third straight win with Skenes on the mound to close out a three-game series against the Guardians at Progressive Field.

What Comes Next?

Skenes will face a tough test against the Guardians' lineup, which includes rookies Travis Bazzana and Chase DeLauter, who both regularly sit near the top of the Guardians' lineup. Skenes will also match up for the first time against Guardians' slugger Kyle Manzardo, who hit a homer off Skenes in their previous meeting.

Skenes has faced the Guardians once before in his career, falling on April 19, 2025. In the contest, Skenes allowed only two earned runs in seven innings in a 3-0 Pirates loss. Skenes struck out just four batters in the contest, while giving up a homer to Manzardo.

Stat to Know: Fastball Run Value

There's been plenty of talk around Skenes' fastball, which has dipped in velocity from 98.2 mph to 96.9 mph. Skenes has repeatedly said he's not concerned with the numbers and feels good. His statistics back the statement. Skenes' four-seam fastball still holds a +11 run value, which is in the 94th percentile in all of Major League Baseball. The pitch has a .195 batting average against after holding a .200 average against in 2025.

Skenes will have to shut down Manzardo, but he doesn't have to worry about Cleveland superstar José Ramírez, who remains on the injured list. Skenes will also match up for the first time against rookies Travis Bazzana and Chase DeLauter, who both regularly sit near the top of the Guardians' lineup.

The Pirates seek their third straight win with Skenes on the mound to close out a three-game series against the Guardians at Progressive Field. With Skenes back on the mound, the Pirates are looking to continue their winning ways and take the series against the Guardians.

category: match_report