Paul Skenes Secures Second Straight Win Over Brewers

Game Recap

Paul Skenes improved to 8‑8 with a dominant performance, allowing just two runs on three hits over 5 ⅓ innings. The right‑hander struck out seven, four of them in the final five frames, and walked a single batter. Robert Gasser fell to 2‑4 after surrendering seven runs and eight hits in just over three innings for Milwaukee.

The Pirates built a 4‑2 cushion before the fourth, then exploded for seven runs to take control. Marcell Ozuna launched a home run, while Henry Davis delivered an RBI single early in the scoring burst. Jared Koenig struck Bryan Reynolds with a pitch on a bases‑loaded situation, forcing home a run, and later a walk to Esmerlyn Valdez combined with Ryan O’Hearn’s single to stretch the lead to 9‑2.

Pittsburgh’s offense continued with Nick Gonzales’ two‑run double off Grant Anderson and a two‑run single from Triolo. After a video review overturned a disputed double‑play call on Henry Davis, Jake Mangum added an RBI triple, sealing the Pirates’ 14‑5 victory.

Key Offensive Plays

Christian Yelich and Chourio capped Skenes’ early dominance by banging back‑to‑back doubles in the fourth inning. Gary Sánchez grounded into a run‑scoring forceout, and Brice Turang responded in the eighth with a two‑run homer, capping a three‑run frame for the Brewers.

Milwaukee’s bullpen struggled to contain the Pirates’ surge, allowing seven unearned runs after a solid start. The Brewers’ offense managed only scattered hits, failing to recover after scratching hard‑throwing Jacob Misiorowski from Saturday’s lineup due to arm fatigue.

Skenes’ Turnaround

Before beating Atlanta on Tuesday, Skenes had posted a 0‑6 stretch spanning nine starts, a stretch the Pirates lost each game. His recent victory marked the first of consecutive wins, lifting his season record to 8‑8. The rookie’s improved stamina and command have been central to Pittsburgh’s recent surge.

Both Skenes and Misiorowski will sit out Tuesday’s All‑Star showcase, a reminder that the roster’s top arms are feeling the strain of a busy early season. The decision ensures the players can recover before the second half of the schedule.

Looking Ahead

Milwaukee heads home for a three‑game set against Miami, beginning Friday night. The Brewers will look to rebound quickly after a series sweep and address pitching depth.

The Pirates open a crucial three‑game road series at Cleveland on Friday. Pittsburgh enters the contest with a 50‑47 record, aiming to keep pace with the playoff picture as the All‑Star break approaches.

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