The Pittsburgh Pirates moved Paul Skenes’ scheduled start from Sunday to Wednesday, citing rest as the primary reason. Manager Don Kelly confirmed the decision after Saturday’s loss to the Red Sox, with Skenes expressing agreement despite his own desire to pitch.
The Pittsburgh Pirates have shifted Paul Skenes’ next start from Sunday to Wednesday, a decision manager Don Kelly attributed to giving the reigning National League Cy Young winner additional rest. Skenes, who was set to face the Red Sox in a pivotal series finale, will instead take the mound against the Tigers on August 18. The move comes amid ongoing concerns about Skenes’ recent performance and a possible fatigue factor, though Kelly emphasized it was not injury-related.
The Decision and Its Rationale
Kelly announced the adjustment after the Pirates’ 4-0 loss to Boston, stating that Skenes would benefit from an extra day of recovery. He was ready to go,
Kelly said, per the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Feel like it will give him a few more days to recover. And also, as we go through that, give other guys on the back side an extra day, as well.
The manager reiterated that Skenes had given us no indication that it’s injury-related,
a claim echoed by Skenes himself.
Skenes’ Response and Self-Assessment
Skenes’ comments reflected a mix of pragmatism and self-awareness. When asked if fatigue was a factor, he denied it, stating, Probably no more than either of the other seasons I’ve pitched in so far.
However, he conceded that the mental challenges of the season had been a little different
compared to his first two years. Physically, I don’t think it’s been any more or less challenging than the last couple years,
he said. Mentally, the challenges have probably been just a little bit different.
Performance Context and Concerns
Skenes’ season has been marked by inconsistency. After a strong start in May, he posted a 5.00 ERA over his last 16 starts, a stretch in which the Pirates are 3-13. His ERA has risen from 2.00 in 2024 to 3.88 in 2026, though his xERA (expected ERA) of 3.29 suggests some luck has played a role. The drop in fastball velocity—averaging 96.8 mph this year compared to 98.2 mph in 2025—has raised questions, though Skenes insists it’s not affecting his performance.
Despite the concerns, Skenes remains confident in his ability to adapt. I think we just get a couple extra days,
he said when asked if the break would help him reset. He also hinted at a potential bullpen session before his next start but emphasized that his routine would remain largely unchanged. It certainly can’t hurt in terms of recovery,
he said. You add recovery in for anybody, and that’s going to help.
Implications for the Pirates’ Rotation
The decision to push Skenes’ start has immediate implications for the Pirates’ pitching staff. Reliever Lake Bachar will take his place against the Red Sox, marking his third relief appearance since being acquired at the trade deadline. Bachar, 31, has a 3.97 ERA in 41 total appearances this season, though his performance against the Marlins earlier this year—including a 9-inning, 2-run outing—suggests he could handle the role.
The Pirates, who fell to 60-65 after Saturday’s loss, now face a critical stretch as they attempt to climb out of the National League Central cellar. Skenes’ absence could strain the rotation, particularly with the team’s recent struggles. However, Kelly’s emphasis on rest reflects a broader strategy to manage workload as the season enters its final two months. Everybody’s tired. Everybody’s grinding,
Skenes said. We’ve just got to keep going.
As the Pirates prepare for Skenes’ next start, the focus will be on whether the extra rest translates to improved performance. With the team’s playoff hopes hanging in the balance, every decision carries weight. For Skenes, the challenge is to regain the form that made him a three-time All-Star and 2025 Cy Young winner—while navigating the mental and physical demands of a long season.
