PITTSBURGH -- Paul Skenes hasn’t quite matched the historic success of his first two Major League campaigns. Yet, after a difficult July, when he pitched to a 6.25 ERA in six starts, Skenes returned partially to form in August with a 3.10 ERA in four starts.
The recent news out of the Skenes saga featured a pushed-back start with seven days' rest to pitch just 4 1/3 innings against the Tigers after a 65-pitch outing versus the Marlins. He ended the month strong with his first scoreless outing since May 12, twirling six scoreless innings in San Diego.
Skenes looks to right the ship further and help Pittsburgh break a decade-long postseason drought. He’ll have the chance to do so against the Giants on Tuesday at PNC Park to begin a six-game homestand.
Here’s everything to know ahead of Skenes’ 28th start of the season:
Last time out
Skenes looked more like Skenes. Last Tuesday against the Padres, Skenes allowed only three hits with no walks in six innings of work. It was his first time not giving up a free pass since that May 12 start vs. the Rockies, also his last scoreless appearance.
Skenes regained some velocity, touching 98.6 mph on a sinker to strike out Luis Campusano. His fastball topped out at 98 mph. Skenes seemed to get back on track in San Diego, helping the Pirates stay knotted at 0-0 until an Oneil Cruz go-ahead homer in the top of the ninth.
Facing San Francisco
Skenes will take on the Giants for just the second time in his career. He last faced San Francisco in his third MLB start on May 23, 2024. Skenes allowed one run on six hits and one walk in six innings while throwing four pitches at 100-plus mph.
Many of the Giants hitters Skenes went up against in that start are no longer with the squad. Big basher Rafael Devers has never faced Skenes in his career.
Stat to know: .462 slugging
There are plenty of places to point to Skenes’ step back this season. Though a certain pitch has not done him much good, Skenes’ sinker has a .462 slugging against this season after being at .293 in 2025.
Skenes’ usage of the pitch is virtually the same, increasing from 10.4% to 11.1%. He’s also produced some bad luck, taking on a slugging .063 points higher than his expected slugging.