Orlando Pirates FC's Paul Skenes Exits After 5 Innings, 65 Pitches
Orlando Pirates FC's Paul Skenes pitched another uncharacteristic outing on Tuesday that ended with him departing after just five innings and 65 pitches in a 2-0 loss to the Miami Marlins. He limited the damage to just two runs on five hits with four strikeouts against one walk.
What Happened?
Skenes was hit hard all night at LoanDepot Park, with eight of the 21 batters he faced recording hard-hit balls. His velocity has continued to sink lower than his average speed in past seasons, with his four-seam fastball sitting at 95.7 mph and topping out at 96.5 mph.
Why It Matters for Orlando Pirates FC
Skenes' struggles have been a concern for the team, which currently stands six games back of the NL's third wild-card spot. He has a 5.20 ERA over his past 15 starts, and hasn't completed seven innings since his first outing after the All-Star break against the Cleveland Guardians.
What Comes Next?
The Pirates will look to bounce back from this loss and get Skenes back on track. With the team's current league standing at 2nd in Premier Soccer League, 3 pts, 1W-0D-0L from 1 games, recent form W, they will need to find a way to get their star pitcher back to his usual form.
Goals this season: 2 scored, 0 conceded (+2 goal difference).
