Pittsburgh Pirates’ highly-touted pitching prospect Paul Skenes saw his impressive scoreless streak come to an end on Wednesday afternoon against the Omaha Storm Chasers. Despite striking out seven batters, Skenes allowed two runs (one earned) on five hits and one walk in 4 1/3 innings, marking the first time he has allowed runs this season. The 2023 No. 1 overall pick showcased his electric fastball, topping 99 mph 21 times and hitting triple digits twice. While he remains one of the top prospects in baseball, this outing highlights the challenges that young pitchers face as they progress through the minor leagues.
Results for: Pittsburgh Pirates
Right-handed pitching prospect Henry Skenes, the first overall pick in the 2022 MLB Draft, has impressed in his latest outing for the Indianapolis Indians, the Triple-A affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. Skenes pitched a career-best 4 1/3 innings, allowing just two runs (one earned) while striking out seven batters. In his previous four starts, Skenes had not allowed any runs in 12 2/3 innings, showing his consistency and potential as a future major league starter.
Pittsburgh Pirates pitching prospect Paul Skenes has expressed his concerns about the potential implementation of Automated Ball-Strike Systems (ABS) in Major League Baseball (MLB). Skenes argues that ABS would diminish the role of catchers in framing pitches and obtaining favorable calls from umpires. He emphasizes the importance of the catcher’s ability to receive pitches effectively, a skill that provides job security for catchers.
Pittsburgh Pirates rookie pitcher Jared Jones has etched his name into baseball history by becoming only the fourth pitcher since 1893 to strike out seven batters in each of his first five career games. Jones’s impressive feat has drawn comparisons to former Pirates pitcher José DeLeón, who accomplished the same milestone in 1983. With his exceptional control and devastating four-seamer, Jones has quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with on the mound. As the Pirates aim for a playoff berth, Jones’s dominance bodes well for their chances of success.
Pittsburgh Pirates manager Derek Shelton’s strategic move to place veteran Andrew McCutchen in the leadoff position has sparked the team to two consecutive wins against the Milwaukee Brewers. Since assuming the leadoff role, McCutchen has registered five hits in eight at-bats and launched a home run in each of the first two innings of the series. Pittsburgh now seeks to secure a series victory for the first time since early April when they face the Brewers again on Wednesday.
After a rocky start to the season, Pittsburgh Pirates closer David Bednar has bounced back with two strong performances, recording saves in back-to-back games. Bednar threw a perfect ninth inning on Tuesday, striking out two batters and inducing a groundout to clinch a 2-1 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers. Despite missing much of spring training due to injury, Bednar has shown signs of returning to his dominant form, effectively mixing his curveball, four-seam fastball, and signature splitter.
Bailey Falter showcased his effectiveness against the Brewers with a stellar seven-inning performance, earning a 2-1 victory at PNC Park. Despite lacking the overpowering fastball of teammate Jared Jones, Falter relied on a simplistic approach, utilizing his fastball with extension, cut profile, and unique funkiness, as described by catcher Joey Bart. The strategy proved successful, resulting in 13 whiffs and 13 called strikes from his 60 fastball pitches. Falter’s performance was highlighted by eight strikeouts, a career high, and a low pitch count, allowing him to work efficiently throughout the game. Manager Derek Shelton praised Falter’s aggressive approach, while Bart emphasized the importance of simplicity and maximizing the pitcher’s strengths.
After a disastrous start to the season, David Bednar has shown signs of his former All-Star self. The 29-year-old has pitched three scoreless outings in a row, converting the save in back-to-back wins over the Milwaukee Brewers. Bednar’s resurgence has come at a crucial time for the Pirates, who have struggled with their bullpen this year.
Andrew McCutchen hit a leadoff home run for the second straight game, Bailey Falter pitched a seven-inning shutout, and the Pittsburgh Pirates defeated the Milwaukee Brewers 2-1 on Tuesday night. McCutchen became the first Pirates player to hit a leadoff homer in back-to-back games since 2019. Falter allowed just three hits and struck out eight batters in his longest outing of the season. Pinch-hitter Connor Joe provided an RBI single in the sixth inning to extend the Pirates’ lead to 2-0.
Andrew McCutchen played a pivotal role as the Pittsburgh Pirates defeated the Milwaukee Brewers 2-1 on Tuesday night. The veteran outfielder launched a first-inning home run for the second consecutive game, while Bailey Falter pitched effectively into the eighth inning. Falter’s solid outing limited the Brewers to just three hits and lifted his record to 2-1. The Pirates now hold a 2-0 lead in the four-game series, having extended their winning streak to two games after enduring six straight losses. Milwaukee, on the heels of a four-game winning streak, seeks redemption in the remaining contests.