Paul Skenes put on a remarkable performance by recording nine strikeouts over six innings, while Bryan De La Cruz’s three-run double in the fifth inning helped the Pittsburgh Pirates secure a 7-0 victory against the Cincinnati Reds on Thursday night.
Skenes, with a season record of 8-2, showcased his dominance by allowing only two hits and a single walk. He has accumulated 110 strikeouts in 92 innings through 17 starts. Despite being in his first full professional season, Skenes has managed to pitch over 131 innings in both major and minor leagues.
The Pirates might consider reducing Skenes’ workload later in September to preserve his stamina, but the rookie pitcher demonstrated strength and skill against the Reds.
Manager Derek Shelton praised Skenes for his execution of the fastball, particularly his ability to hit both sides of the plate effectively. Skenes consistently threw fastballs exceeding 100 mph during the game.
Ben Heller pitched two innings, and Hunter Stratton closed the game in the ninth inning, securing a five-hit shutout for the Pirates, their ninth of the season. Unfortunately, the Reds were shut out for the 11th time this season.
De La Cruz had an exceptional performance with two doubles and a single. Despite joining the Pirates with no extra-base hits in 66 plate appearances, De La Cruz’s contributions were crucial in the game.
Nick Lodolo, the Reds’ pitcher, had a strong start but was eventually charged with five runs before being replaced in the fifth inning. Lodolo, who has struggled in his recent outings, expressed frustration over his inability to finish off batters after getting them to two strikes.
The Pirates broke the scoreless tie in the fifth inning, loading the bases with two outs and scoring six runs. De La Cruz’s bases-clearing double was a pivotal moment in the game, extending the Pirates’ lead to 5-0.
Yasmani Grandal added a solo home run for the Reds in the sixth inning. Veteran first baseman Dominic Smith, recently signed by the Reds after being released by Boston, struck out in all three plate appearances.
In injury updates, Reds outfielder Jake Fraley was placed on the 10-day injured list, while left-handed pitcher Brent Suter began a rehabilitation assignment after tearing his left teres muscle in July.
The upcoming game will feature a matchup between Cincinnati’s Andrew Abbott and Pittsburgh’s Bailey Falter, both left-handed pitchers.