Pirates Push Back Paul Skenes' Next Start
MLB Trade Rumors • • sports
Key Points:
- Pirates right-hander Paul Skenes will not start Sunday's game against the Red Sox, with manager Don Kelly opting for a bullpen game instead; Skenes is scheduled to make his next start Wednesday against the Tigers.
- The decision to push back Skenes' start is not injury-related but aimed at giving him more rest, as confirmed by Kelly, with Skenes expressing support for the move despite it not being his choice.
- Skenes' recent performances have shown a dip in fastball velocity, averaging 96.8 mph this season compared to over 98 mph in previous years, and his ERA has risen to 3.88 after a stretch of less dominant outings.
- While Skenes' pitching arsenal remains largely consistent with prior seasons, subtle changes like a slightly increased arm angle may indicate he is adjusting his mechanics, though not necessarily due to injury.
- Despite the challenges this season, Skenes showed resilience with a strong post-All-Star break start, pitching seven innings with a fastball velocity matching his season average, suggesting the rest could help him regain form.
