Pirates' Skenes Shines; McCutchen Hits Milestone

Paul Skenes, the 2024 NL Rookie of the Year, delivered a strong performance for the Pittsburgh Pirates, striking out six batters over seven innings in a 4-2 victory against the Tampa Bay Rays. Despite not recording a strikeout until the third inning, Skenes allowed only an unearned run due to a throwing error by Isaiah Kiner-Falefa. Oneil Cruz supported the win with his second home run of the season, helping secure Skenes' first victory in 2025. Meanwhile, Pirates veteran Andrew McCutchen has made a notable start to his 17th MLB season, highlighted by a home run against the Miami Marlins. Although the Pirates have struggled early in the season with a 1-5 record, McCutchen's leadership and performance offer hope for improvement. The Pirates aim to rebound as they return home to face the New York Yankees.