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2d ago

Paul Skenes Reaches 200 Strikeouts as Pirates Manage Workload in Cy Young Push

Pittsburgh is curbing his innings to protect his arm for future seasons.

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5/13/25
Jul 15, 2025; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; National League pitcher Paul Skenes (30) of the Pittsburgh Pirates pitches in the first inning against the American League during the 2025 MLB All Star Game at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Skenes struck out eight over five scoreless innings on 64 pitches before being lifted in a 2-1, 10-inning loss to the Orioles.
  • He now has 203 strikeouts and an MLB-best 1.92 ERA across 178 innings and 30 starts, becoming the second Pirates starter since 1901 to reach 200 Ks in 180 innings or fewer.
  • Manager Don Kelly said Skenes’ usage will be evaluated start by start with the goal of finishing healthy, and Skenes said he probably needed the lighter outing.
  • The Pirates clinched a seventh straight losing season and sit last in the NL Central, a context analysts note could influence Cy Young voting despite Skenes’ dominance.
  • Speculative trade chatter continues in media, including an Athlon Sports proposal sending Skenes to the Mets for Luisangel Acuña and top prospects, but it remains hypothetical.