The baseball world is buzzing with the news that Paul Skenes, the reigning NL Cy Young winner, has been pushed back from his scheduled start for the Pirates. This unexpected move has sparked curiosity and raised questions among fans and analysts alike.
A Change of Plans
Initially slated to pitch against the Red Sox, Skenes will now take the mound on Wednesday against the Tigers. The decision, made by manager Don Kelly, is not due to any injury concerns, but rather a strategic move to provide Skenes with additional rest. This revelation has left many wondering about the reasoning behind such a decision, especially considering Skenes' recent performance.
The Velocity Dip
One of the key observations that has caught the attention of analysts is the decline in Skenes' fastball velocity. In his most recent start against the Marlins, Skenes' heater sat at a career-low 95.7 mph, a significant drop from his average of over 98 mph in his first two seasons. This decrease in speed has raised concerns, especially when coupled with his early exit from the game after just 65 pitches.
A Season of Ups and Downs
Skenes' 2026 campaign has been a rollercoaster ride. After a disastrous season opener, he seemed to find his groove in May, delivering back-to-back scoreless outings. However, this momentum was short-lived, as he then entered a 16-start stretch with a 5.00 ERA. Despite a lower xERA suggesting some bad luck, his overall performance has been a far cry from his dominant sub-2.00 seasons.
Unchanged Arsenal, Different Results
Interestingly, Skenes' pitching arsenal remains largely unchanged from last year. His pitch usage and grades are similar, with a slight dip in his Location+. One notable difference is the increase in his arm angle, which has gone from 23 degrees to 26 degrees. While this change may go unnoticed in a typical season, it adds an intriguing layer to the narrative, especially given Skenes' recent struggles.
The Manager's Perspective
Manager Don Kelly has emphasized that the decision to push Skenes back is not injury-related. He acknowledges that all players are dealing with various issues this season, but Skenes has not indicated any health concerns. This statement adds an element of mystery to the situation, leaving fans and experts to speculate on the true reasons behind the move.
A Week of Rest
Skenes will now have a week's break between starts, a period that could prove beneficial for his performance. His last outing, where he pitched on seven days' rest, saw him deliver a strong performance, with his fastball velocity back up to its season average.
Final Thoughts
The decision to push Skenes back raises intriguing questions about the delicate balance between rest and performance in baseball. While the move may provide Skenes with the opportunity to recharge, it also highlights the challenges of managing a pitcher's workload and the impact it can have on their performance. As we await Skenes' next start, the baseball community will be watching closely to see if this strategic decision pays off.
