Paul Skenes Set for 31st Start of Season Against Royals

Pittsburgh Pirates right-hander Paul Skenes will make his 31st start of the 2026 season on Friday evening against the Kansas City Royals. Skenes holds a 10-11 record with a 3.78 ERA on the year. In his previous outing on September 12 against the Chicago Cubs, the young ace allowed just two runs on four hits over seven strong innings at Wrigley Field, receiving a no-decision after the bullpen surrendered the lead.