Paul Skenes struggles with velocity drop during latest Pirates start
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 19, 2026, 6:13 PM
Last updated Aug 19, 2026
Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes returned to the mound on August 19 after a delayed start. He faced challenges, with his fastball averaging 96.8 mph, a noticeable decline from his previous performances. Skenes allowed three runs over 4.1 innings, raising concerns regarding his effectiveness. The drop in velocity is attributed to a mechanical change rather than injury, which has impacted his performance this season. His latest outing saw slight improvement, reaching 97.9 mph, but continued to highlight inconsistency in his pitching.
- •Skenes pitched 4.1 innings, allowing three runs against MLB hitters.
- •Velocity dropped from consistent triple-digit levels to 96.8 mph this season.
- •Pirates confirmed no injury concerns related to his performance.
- •Skenes showed slight improvement, topping out at 97.9 mph.
- •His last five starts include a combined 19 earned runs.
- 6:13 PMYahoo Sports — Paul Skenes' concerning velocity drop was summed up in one graphic
"The Pirates ace hasn't looked like himself for much of this season.
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