The Pirates' decision to push back Paul Skenes' next start is a strategic move that sparks intrigue and speculation. As the reigning NL Cy Young winner, Skenes' performance this season has been a rollercoaster, with a dip in fastball velocity and a surprising early exit from his last start against the Marlins. This article delves into the implications of this move, exploring the potential reasons behind it and the broader context of Skenes' season.
A Dip in Velocity and Dominance
Skenes' fastball velocity has been a concern, dropping to a career-low 95.7 mph in his last start. This is a significant drop from his previous seasons, where he averaged over 98 mph on his four-seamer. The decrease in velocity raises questions about his ability to maintain dominance, especially against powerful lineups.
The Pirates' decision to give Skenes more rest is intriguing. While it's not injury-related, as Manager Don Kelly assured, it suggests a proactive approach to managing his workload. Skenes himself seemed to understand the move, emphasizing his commitment to supporting the team's strategy.
A Season of Ups and Downs
Skenes' season has been a rollercoaster, with a disastrous season opener against the Mets and a subsequent resurgence. He opened May with back-to-back outings of eight scoreless frames, lowering his ERA under 2.00. However, a 5.00 ERA over 16 starts followed, suggesting a dip in performance.
Despite the dip in velocity, Skenes' arsenal remains largely unchanged. He continues to rely on his four-seamer, sweeper, changeup, splitter, and sinker, with usage rates between 10% and 16%. The slight dip in Stuff+ and Location+ further highlights the need for strategic adjustments.
Arm Angle and Comfort
A subtle but significant change in Skenes' arm angle from 23 degrees to 26 degrees adds another layer of intrigue. This adjustment could indicate a search for a more comfortable slot, potentially addressing physical discomfort. While it's not a major shift, it's a detail that warrants attention, especially in a season of challenges.
A Week of Rest and Recovery
Skenes will now have a week off between starts, providing an opportunity for rest and recovery. This is a strategic move, given his recent outings on seven days' rest. His performance against the Guardians, with a fastball sitting at 96.7 mph, suggests that he can deliver when given adequate time to prepare.
In conclusion, the Pirates' decision to push back Skenes' start is a calculated move, addressing concerns about his performance and workload. As the season unfolds, the implications of this decision will be revealed, offering insights into Skenes' journey towards reclaiming his Cy Young form.
