Pirates Ace Paul Skenes Blames WBC for Velocity Loss

Skenes Struggles with Fastball Speed

Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes has opened up about his struggles during the 2026 season. The ace experienced an unusual drop in his pitching velocity this year, and he believes the World Baseball Classic is a major reason why.

Skenes said the tournament was "kind of the root" of the issue. His average fastball velocity fell to 96.8 mph this season. That is a noticeable drop from 98.1 mph last year and 98.8 mph in 2024.

The dip was especially clear during a game against the Miami Marlins last month, where his fastball fell to a career-low 95.7 mph. In his latest start on Friday against the Kansas City Royals, his fastball averaged 96.1 mph.

Disrupted Routine and Mechanical Issues

The tournament in early March threw off Skenes' usual preparation for the season. Normally, he prefers a slow ramp up period to find his mechanics and build speed gradually. He explained that the tournament did not help with that process.

Skenes also dealt with mechanical issues throughout the year. He admitted that he did not feel completely right even during his best stretches. In April and May, he posted a 1.09 ERA over eight starts but still felt his delivery was off.

The pitcher, who is 24, finished the season with a 10-11 record, a 3.91 ERA, and 192 strikeouts over 168 innings in 31 starts. These numbers are a step back from his previous campaigns. Last year, Skenes won the National League Cy Young Award with a 1.97 ERA, and he was named Rookie of the Year in 2024 with a 1.96 ERA.

Despite the difficult season, the three time All Star does not regret playing for Team USA. However, he acknowledged that the tournament made things harder for his season with the Pirates. He expects to fix his mechanics before the 2027 season begins.

What it means for the next game

St. Louis Cardinals at Pittsburgh Pirates (MLB, Tue, 22 Sep): Pittsburgh Pirates win 45%, St. Louis Cardinals win 55%; projected score Pittsburgh Pirates 5, St. Louis Cardinals 5. Our safest pick: Pirates +2.5.

St. Louis Cardinals at Pittsburgh Pirates (MLB, Wed, 23 Sep): Pittsburgh Pirates win 45%, St. Louis Cardinals win 55%; projected score Pittsburgh Pirates 5, St. Louis Cardinals 5. Our safest pick: Pirates +2.5.