Paul Skenes Flirts with No-Hitter as Pirates Edge Brewers 1-0
Paul Skenes Flirts with No-Hitter as Pirates Edge Brewers 1-0
Pittsburgh Pirates’ right-hander Paul Skenes continues to impress in his rookie season, turning in another sterling performance against the Milwaukee Brewers. In what was his 11th start of the season, Skenes held the Brewers hitless through seven masterful innings, striking out 11 and walking just one. The 6-foot-6 flamethrower was lifted after throwing 99 pitches, a decision carefully managed by Pirates' skipper Derek Shelton.
"Manager Derek Shelton has been meticulously overseeing Skenes’ pitch count," a sentiment that has generated much conversation among fans and analysts alike this season. Skenes has exceeded the 100-pitch threshold in just four of his 11 starts, a strategy designed to preserve his arm for the long haul.
As Skenes departed the mound, Pirates’ reliever Colin Holderman took over in the eighth inning. Unfortunately, the combined no-hit bid came to an abrupt end as Holderman surrendered a hit to the first batter he faced. Despite the setback, Pittsburgh’s bullpen locked down the narrow 1-0 lead, culminating in a victory against their divisional foes.
Holderman, along with veteran closer Aroldis Chapman, secured the win, showcasing the Pirates’ bullpen depth. Skenes spoke highly of his bullpen counterparts: "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."
Skenes’ outing further embedded his name in the record books. He became only the second pitcher in American League/National League history to have multiple starts of six or more innings without allowing a hit while striking out at least 11 batters. The only other pitcher to achieve this feat is the legendary Nolan Ryan.
Skenes burst onto the Major League scene in mid-May, and in just his first 10 starts, he posted a commendable 2.12 ERA. He also boasted a 6.50 strikeout-to-walk ratio, underscoring his dominance and command on the mound. Following his latest outing, his ERA dipped even further to an impressive 1.90.
The Pirates’ current record stands at 45-48, positioning them squarely in the National League wild-card race. Manager Derek Shelton’s decision-making regarding Skenes’ workload has been a topic of considerable discussion, but so far, it appears to be paying dividends. Shelton's strategy suggests a focus not only on preserving young talent but also on pushing for a playoff berth.
Reflecting on the night's events, Skenes summed up his feelings: "I wasn't going to be surprised either way, if he sent me out or pulled me," he said. "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."
With Skenes leading the way, the Pirates are not only aiming for a spot in the postseason but are doing so with a youthful exuberance and strategic precision. His first 11 starts have ignited a sense of optimism and belief within the team and its fan base. As Pittsburgh sets its sights on a playoff push, Skenes’ continued excellence on the mound will be pivotal.
The emergence of Paul Skenes as a reliable ace is a promising sign for the Pirates. His historical feats and consistent performances have energized the club in its quest for September baseball. While there are no guarantees in a long MLB season, the Pirates' playoff aspirations carry newfound credibility with Skenes at the helm.
