Paul Skenes Pulled After 65 Pitches as Fastball Velocity Hits Career-Low 95.7 MPH

Reigning NL Cy Young winner Paul Skenes fell to 9-11 after allowing two runs on five hits during a brief 65-pitch start against the Miami Marlins.

Pittsburgh Pirates ace Paul Skenes (9-11) was removed from Tuesday's loss against the Miami Marlins after throwing just 65 pitches, his lowest total since an April weather delay. The reigning National League Cy Young Award winner allowed two runs—one earned—on five hits, issuing one walk and recording four strikeouts. This performance tied for his second-lowest strikeout total this season in any start lasting at least five innings. Skenes did not return for the sixth inning despite his limited pitch count, as the All-Star struggled with a 12% whiff rate, inducing only four misses on 34 swings.

During the outing in Miami, Paul Skenes velocity averaged a career-low 95.7 mph on his fastball. The right-hander failed to register a single pitch harder than 97 mph throughout the appearance. This continues a downward trend for the three-time All-Star, whose average fastball velocity has dropped from 98.8 mph in 2024 and 98.1 mph last season to a current season average of 96.8 mph. Over his last nine starts, Skenes has posted a 3-4 record and a 5.79 ERA, contributing to his season-long 3.88 ERA across 134⅔ innings of work.

Manager Don Kelly Explains Early Exit

Pirates manager Don Kelly clarified that the decision to lift Skenes before the sixth inning was not related to a physical injury. Kelly stated that the move was a tactical choice, believing the pitching change gave the team the best chance to win the game. The manager acknowledged the frustration surrounding the team’s current stretch, noting the pressure involved when battling for results. Skenes expressed agreement with the decision, stating he did not plead to remain in the game and noting that he would likely have made the same call if he were in the manager's position.

Pitch Volume and Routine Changes

Skenes addressed his recent struggles by pointing to the physical toll of high-pitch innings rather than just his total frame count. He noted that he has likely thrown more 30- to 35-pitch innings this year than in the previous two seasons combined. The pitcher suggested that this specific type of volume, even if not reflected in a high innings total, may be a contributing factor to his diminished power. Additionally, Skenes mentioned he has implemented certain changes in his daily routine to address his performance.

Historical Context of Pitch Counts

The 65-pitch effort on Tuesday represents Skenes' shortest workload since a 64-pitch start against the Tampa Bay Rays in April, which was cut short by a lengthy weather delay after four innings. While the pitcher admitted he wished he could have provided more length in Miami, he reiterated his respect for Kelly’s management, stating the explanation for the hook made sense to him. The Pirates now face continued speculation regarding the health and durability of their ace as his velocity remains significantly below his established career norms.