US EditionPublished • loading... • Updated
Paul Skenes had to be almost perfect last year for the Pirates to have a chance. Times have changed
Pittsburgh’s rebuilt lineup has lifted the majors’ worst offense into the top 10 in runs, homers and RBIs, easing pressure on Skenes.
- On Monday, the Pittsburgh Pirates offense powered a 16-5 victory over the Washington Nationals at PNC Park, providing crucial run support for 23-year-old pitcher Paul Skenes.
- To address 2025 deficiencies where they finished last in runs and home runs, the Pirates made aggressive moves, acquiring second baseman Brandon Lowe from Tampa Bay in December.
- Lowe became the first player in franchise history to record back-to-back five-RBI games on Monday night. Center fielder Oneil Cruz extended his hitting streak to 12 games with a 114 mph rope off the right-field fence.
- Skenes no longer feels pressure to be flawless with improved offensive support. The pitcher joked he might throw "100 in a row" of changeups during his next start on Saturday against the Rays.
- Pittsburgh has scored 38 runs across Skenes' first four starts in 2026, compared to needing 11 starts for that total last season. This dramatic improvement demonstrates the resilience required for postseason contention.
Insights by Ground AI
12 Articles
12 Articles
The Toronto Star+10 Reposted by 10 other sources
Paul Skenes had to be almost perfect last year for the Pirates to have a chance. Times have changed
PITTSBURGH (AP) — Paul Skenes spent last season pitching on a razor's edge, aware that one mistake could tilt the balance of a game, no matter how masterful the Pittsburgh
·Toronto, Canada
Read Full ArticleCoverage Details
Total News Sources12
Leaning Left9Leaning Right0Center3Last UpdatedBias Distribution75% Left
Bias Distribution
- 75% of the sources lean Left
75% Left
L 75%
C 25%
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
