The Pittsburgh Pirates started their four-game series against the Cincinnati Reds with a commanding 7-0 shutout on Thursday. While the team’s overall season prospects remain bleak, one shining light continues to be their ace pitcher, Paul Skenes.
Despite allowing a career-high seven hits, Skenes maintained control and shut down the Reds, delivering a dominant performance that further cements his status as one of the National League’s premier pitchers.
Manager Don Kelly spoke candidly about Skenes’ ability to navigate through adversity: “He’s got that knack. He’s got elite stuff, but when he gets in trouble, he’s able to go to a lot of different things to get out of the inning, to be able to get punchouts or induce double plays,” Kelly said according to John Perrotto of MLB.com.
Kelly continued, “He’s got that feel of a pitcher. He has power stuff, but he’s a pitcher, and he’s able to use it to induce a double play or go for the punchout when he needs it. There aren’t many like him.”
Manager Don Kelly #12 of the Pittsburgh Pirates watches their game against the Detroit Tigers during the fifth inning at Comerica Park on June 17, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Duane Burleson/Getty Images)
How does Skenes manage to escape trouble?
Paul Skenes was drafted first overall in 2023 by the Pirates out of LSU after an exceptional collegiate career. His rapid ascent through the minor leagues culminated in a stunning MLB debut last season, where he won Rookie of the Year and finished third in Cy Young Award voting. Skenes’ mix of power pitching and strategic finesse allows him to maintain composure even when under pressure.
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Can the Pirates build a supporting cast around their ace?
While Skenes’ individual performances have been outstanding, the Pirates as a team have struggled to build sufficient offensive support. The National League remains highly competitive, and without a stronger lineup, the team’s chances of contending are limited. Following the firing of Derek Shelton, Don Kelly’s tenure as manager has not yielded significant success, and the organization is expected to pursue managerial changes this offseason.
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As the Pirates continue their series against the Reds on Friday, questions remain about the team’s ability to leverage offseason moves effectively, especially after losing Ke’Bryan Hayes, whose offensive struggles made a long-term deal untenable.
