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Skenes' Velocity Dip Raises Pirates' Concerns
3 Jul
Summary
- Skenes' fastball velocity has decreased since 2024.
- His ERA has risen to 5.36 over his last seven starts.
- Opponent exit velocity and hard-hit rates are concerning.
As of July 3, 2026, Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes is experiencing a challenging period. Despite making his MLB debut in 2024 and showing promise, his recent performance has deviated from expectations.
Skenes' statistics in 2026 include a 3.62 ERA and a 1.01 WHIP over 18 starts. However, a career-high seven earned runs allowed in a recent 4.0-inning outing against the Philadelphia Phillies highlights recent struggles.
Since May 17, Skenes' ERA has climbed to 5.36 with a 1.40 WHIP. His fastball velocity has also decreased, dropping to 96.9 mph in 2026 from 98.8 mph in 2024 and 98.1 mph in 2025.
While Skenes maintains an elite strikeout rate, the increase in hard-hit balls and opponent exit velocity (90.4 mph) suggests underlying issues that the Pirates' front office needs to address.
