Pirates’ historic feat saves Paul Skenes’ disastrous start vs. Giants

Paul Skenes recaptured his elite form in last Tuesday’s 1-0 win over the San Diego Padres and should have been ready to dominate again after a week break, but he could not carry his momentum into his latest start. The 2025 National League Cy Young Award winner blew up in the second inning versus the San Francisco Giants, allowing a three-run homer to Rafael Devers and raising more questions about his effectiveness. Fortunately, he has a dangerous offense behind him.

Trailing 5-2 after Skenes’ stumbles, the Pirates exploded for nine runs in the bottom of the third inning and took their ace off the hook. Oneil Cruz recorded two singles and three RBIs, and the lineup collectively jumped all over Logan Webb, who imploded in the third for the second time in his last three starts. Pittsburgh did not even go yard or notch a double, punishing the visiting squad with a barrage of singles, a couple of walks and a hit by pitch.

The rally was not new to Pirates fans. Although the team has fallen out of the playoff picture, at least for now, it remains quite capable in the batter’s box. This marks the third time in 2026 that the Buccos have scored nine or more runs in an inning, which ties a franchise record with the 1893, 1894 and 1944 clubs for the most in a single campaign, according to Sarah Langs.

This is the Pirates’ third 9+ run inning this season, tied for the most in a season in franchise history, with:

1944
1894
1893

h/t @EliasSports https://t.co/3JprJrxZrb

— Sarah Langs (@SlangsOnSports) September 2, 2026

Pittsburgh (67-71) ranks sixth in MLB with a .736 OPS and is fourth in runs scored, batting average and on-base percentage. Unfortunately, the starting pitching rotation has not been able to fulfill its potential this year. Paul Skenes allowed five runs on eight hits and walked three hitters in just 4 2/3 innings pitched on Tuesday. He now owns a 3.97 ERA for the season.

Of course, the superstar right-hander is not the only one scuffling on the mound. The Pirates blew a five-run lead and found themselves in a 12-12 tie with the Giants in the ninth.

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