Despite a nine-game winless streak across May, June and early July, Skenes returned 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. Here’s everything to know ahead of Skenes’ 21st start of the season, and his first of the second half.
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.
The victory was built upon a start against the Braves on July 7, when Skenes gave up two earned runs in six innings. Skenes allowed a career-high seven earned runs to start July in Philadelphia. Since then, he seems to be cruising like normal.
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 Kyle Manzardo.
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.
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.
