Skenes will make his next start in the series opener vs. the Cincinnati Reds at PNC Park on Aug. 7, marking his 24th start of the season and taking on right-handed pitcher Brady Singer. This makes it his first season with at least 24 starts, after he reached 23 last season in his National League Rookie of the Year campaign.

Pirates Facing Backlash After New Paul Skenes Contract Report Surfaces originally appeared on Athlon Sports. The Pittsburgh Pirates have failed to reach the postseason since 2015, and with the team currently sitting at 48–64 in last place in the NL Central, that drought appears likely to stretch to a full decade by season’s end.

The Pittsburgh Pirates have reportedly started conversations with Paul Skenes over extension talks as the season goes on, but they know it will take some work.