After Paul Skenes' dominant start and a 10th-inning win, the Pirates face Jacob deGrom and the Rangers on June 20. Can the Bucs' momentum overcome an ace?
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
What a difference a day makes. After splitting a wild doubleheader with the Tigers that culminated in a thrilling 10th-inning offensive explosion, the Pittsburgh Pirates are back at PNC Park with some hard-earned momentum. But there's no time to rest, as one of this generation's greatest pitchers, Jacob deGrom, takes the mound for the Texas Rangers tonight, setting up a classic David vs. Goliath matchup for young Mike Burrows and the Bucs.
With a staggering 1.78 ERA, rookie phenom Paul Skenes isn't just a part of the rotation; he's become its anchor.
Thursday's nightcap against the Tigers was a testament to this team's resilience. After a lopsided 9-2 loss in the opener, the Pirates clawed their way to a 10-inning, 8-4 victory. The decisive blow came from a four-run surge in the top of the 10th, sparked by Isiah Kiner-Falefa's go-ahead two-run single. Ke’Bryan Hayes and recent acquisition Joey Bart added crucial RBI singles of their own, showcasing a clutch gene the team has been searching for.
Before the late-game heroics, it was once again The Paul Skenes Show. The rookie ace was electric, striking out nine Tigers over six innings. While he battled his control with five walks, he allowed just two runs, lowering his season ERA to a spectacular 1.78. Every time Skenes takes the mound, it's an event. He's providing the kind of top-of-the-rotation stability that can change the entire complexion of a season.
The long ball also played a massive role in securing the doubleheader split. Nick Gonzales and Jared Triolo got the party started with early home runs, while veteran leader Andrew McCutchen launched his 10th homer of the season. Cutch continues to be a vital offensive cog, leading the team with a .271 average and providing consistent power. The contributions from Gonzales and Triolo signal a welcome power surge from the infield, adding much-needed depth to the lineup.
Tonight's series opener against the Rangers is a formidable challenge. Jacob deGrom (6-2, 2.19 ERA) is a true ace, and the Pirates' offense, led by Bryan Reynolds and Oneil Cruz, will have its work cut out. It's a massive test for Mike Burrows on the other side. As the team battles on the field, the front office continues to build for the future, with top prospect Termarr Griffin's development and defensive versatility at shortstop and the outfield representing the next wave of talent the organization is counting on.
The Pirates showed immense grit against Detroit, and they'll need every ounce of it tonight. Facing a legend like Jacob deGrom is the ultimate test. A competitive showing, or even a win, could be a massive momentum boost for this young team as they head into the weekend. Let's raise the Jolly Roger.
