Paul Skenes stellar again in scoreless start, draws standing ovation on road from Cardinals fans
Paul Skenes delivered 6 1/3 scoreless innings against the St. Louis Cardinals, enhancing his reputation as a rookie sensation for the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Skenes struck out eight batters, including consecutive strikeouts to start the game and a 99 mph fastball strikeout on his 99th pitch, showcasing his power and precision.
Despite being on the road, Skenes received a standing ovation from the Cardinals' crowd as he exited after a double by Nolan Arenado ended his night.
Skenes threw 103 pitches, with 74 being strikes, and allowed only five hits without issuing any walks, maintaining a season ERA of 2.43 over 33 1/3 innings.
Cardinals' starter Miles Mikolas matched Skenes' excellence with six no-hit innings, eventually allowing just one hit and one walk while striking out six over seven scoreless innings.
The Pirates scored two runs in the ninth inning to secure a 2-1 victory, with David Bednar closing the game despite a home run by Nolan Gorman and additional base runners.