Skenes Endures Erratic Start During Loss to Cubs
Top prospect Paul Skenes had a rocky outing as the Pittsburgh Pirates fell to the Chicago Cubs, continuing a tough stretch for the young right-hander. In his latest appearance, Skenes struggled with command and consistency, leading to a shortened outing and raising concerns about his adjustment to major league competition.
Skenes, known for his overpowering fastball and poise on the mound, showed flashes of his potential but lacked control in key moments. He issued multiple walks and labored through high pitch counts early, allowing the Cubs to capitalize on scoring opportunities. Despite striking out several batters, he failed to find a rhythm, leading to his early exit before completing five innings.
The Pirates’ offense couldn’t overcome the deficit, ultimately falling to the Cubs in a game that highlighted their continued struggles both on the mound and at the plate. Manager Derek Shelton acknowledged Skenes’ talent but emphasized the need for improved consistency moving forward.
While Skenes remains a cornerstone of Pittsburgh’s future rotation, the outing served as a reminder of the learning curve young pitchers face at the major league level. The Pirates hope he can regroup quickly and deliver on the promise that made him a top draft pick.