Paul Skenes dominates the Diamondbacks in a 6-0 Pirates win on July 27, 2025. As his historic season continues, GM Ben Cherington signals a bold trade deadline.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Another Sunday at PNC Park, another masterclass from Paul Skenes. The Pirates' ace was simply untouchable against the Diamondbacks, carving them up for six shutout innings in a 6-0 victory that felt both exhilarating and bittersweet. As Skenes continues to rewrite the record books, the clock is ticking loudly towards the July 31 trade deadline, and GM Ben Cherington is promising fireworks.
I don’t think we can be risk-averse. I don’t think that’s going to work in Pittsburgh.
Paul Skenes is no longer just a phenom; he's a historical force. His nine-strikeout performance on Sunday lowered his MLB-leading ERA to a staggering 1.83. Through his first 45 career starts, his 1.89 ERA is the best of any pitcher to begin a career. He hasn't allowed a first-inning run all season. The Diamondbacks were helpless as the Pirates cruised to a series win, allowing just a single run over three games. Offensive support came from Oneil Cruz and Ke’Bryan Hayes, who each drove in two, providing more than enough cushion for the man on the mound.
While Skenes provides a glimpse of a brilliant future, General Manager Ben Cherington is focused on accelerating the timeline to get there. In a Sunday media session, Cherington made it clear the Pirates won't be sitting on their hands this week. He signaled an aggressive, 'bold' approach, emphasizing the need to take calculated risks on prospects and unproven talent to build a sustainable winner in a small market. With the team still languishing in the NL Central cellar, his words suggest the Pirates could be one of the most active teams as the July 31 deadline looms.
The good vibes from the weekend will be put to the test immediately as the Pirates (44-62) begin a road series in San Francisco against the Giants (54-52). Mitch Keller gets the ball in Monday's opener, looking to build on the momentum from the pitching staff's dominant weekend. The offense, led by the power of Oneil Cruz (17 HR) and the veteran presence of Andrew McCutchen (.327 OBP), will need to find consistency on the road. Despite the recent two-game win streak, the Bucs remain 18.5 games out of first place, a stark reminder of the work Cherington has ahead.
This week represents a fascinating crossroads for the Pittsburgh Pirates. On the field, we get to witness the generational talent of Paul Skenes. Off the field, we wait to see what 'bold' and 'risk-taking' moves the front office will make to build around him. As the team heads to San Francisco, all eyes will be on both the diamond and the trade ticker. Buckle up, it's going to be a wild few days.
