The Pittsburgh Pirates have made a strategic move to give their star pitcher, Paul Skenes, some much-needed rest. Skenes, the reigning NL Cy Young winner, will not start the final game of a three-game series against the Red Sox on Sunday. Instead, he'll make his next start on Wednesday against the Tigers, according to Manager Don Kelly. This decision comes after a concerning outing in Miami, where Skenes' fastball velocity dropped significantly, raising questions about his performance and health.
Skenes, who has been a workhorse for the Pirates, has had a tumultuous season so far. His ERA has risen to 3.88, a stark contrast to his sub-2.00 seasons in his first two big-league campaigns. The dip in velocity and a recent 16-start stretch with a 5.00 ERA have sparked concern among fans and analysts alike. Despite this, Skenes remains confident, stating he'll support the team's decision and doesn't necessarily disagree with it.
The Pirates' strategy to give Skenes more rest is a wise one, considering his recent performance. His arm angle has also changed, from 23 degrees in his first two seasons to 26 degrees this year, which could be a sign of discomfort or a search for a more comfortable slot. However, Manager Kelly assures that this move is not injury-related, but rather a preventative measure to ensure Skenes' long-term health and effectiveness.
Skenes' next start will be on Wednesday, giving him a week off between starts. This is a significant break for a pitcher who has pitched on seven days' rest after the All-Star break. With a week of rest, Skenes will have the opportunity to recharge and potentially regain his dominant form, which could be crucial for the Pirates' success in the second half of the season.
In summary, the Pirates' decision to push back Skenes' start is a strategic move to ensure his health and effectiveness. While it may be a temporary setback, it could ultimately benefit the team in the long run. Skenes' ability to bounce back and regain his Cy Young form will be a key factor in the Pirates' playoff aspirations.
