Pirates Torn Apart By Social Media After Wasting Another Epic Paul Skenes Outing
Even another incredible Paul Skenes outing wasn't enough to make up for a hapless Pirates offense on Saturday in Atlanta.
Despite allowing one earned run and striking out nine Braves batters in six innings, Skenes didn't earn the win. Even worse, the Pirates lost, 2-1, in extras.
The No. 1 overall pick of the 2023 MLB Draft, Skenes lowered his earned run average (ERA) for the season to 2.06 in his ninth start. And while he's still yet to record a loss this season, he only has four wins.
After Pittsburgh averaged nine runs per game in Skenes' first five starts, his run support has dwindled over his last four appearances. Since June 11, the Pirates have scored eight runs total in games started by Skenes.
Several fans called out the Pirates for the wasting another one of their star pitcher's remarkable performances.
"Now how about some run support. Is that too much to ask?" pleaded one incredulous fan.
"If only his management would provide him with some support," added another.
"Pirates should be trying every way possible to sign him right now. He’s the guy that puts people in seats and can be the face of the franchise," accurately wrote another commenter.
Jun 23, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates starting pitcher Paul Skenes (30) delivers a pitch against the Tampa Bay Rays during the first inning at PNC Park. © Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
The Pirates entered Saturday with the fourth-worst team batting average (.228) in baseball while averaging 4.05 runs per game, 22nd in the league.