Pittsburgh Pirates ace Paul Skenes’ 2026 season has taken a concerning turn with the pitcher allowing 69 runs, nearly as many as the 76 runs he surrendered across the 2024 and 2025 seasons combined. MLB analyst Dan Clark pointed out how his struggles are persisting following a notable change in his physical profile.
Skenes’ listed weight has risen by 25 pounds over two years, roughly a 10% increase. This not only added a visible change in physique but also a significant drop in velocity. His pitches are known for their explosive power, and Clark believes that a change in body mass can have major consequences.
“Pitching deep into games requires elite cardio and muscular endurance. Carrying an extra 25 pounds puts far greater strain on a player’s joints, heart, and muscles. In my opinion, he needs to get himself in shape ASAP. Otherwise, this is his new norm,” MLB analyst Dan Clark said.
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It can slow down the delivery and limit relative strength and flexibility during pitches. Analytics highlighted that Paul Skenes‘ arm angle has increased by approximately three degrees, affecting the movement and shape of his entire pitching arsenal.
At the same time, he appeared to be moving more slowly during his delivery, and his once-dominant 100-mph fastball has become less consistent. It has occasionally fallen into a much more vulnerable 95-96 mph range. Dan Clark believes Paul Skenes needs to immediately address the situation and get himself back in shape as the October race continues.
Paul Skenes admits feeling “just a little out of sync” amid struggles on mound
Pittsburgh Pirates ace Paul Skenes admitted feeling “just a little out of sync” amid his uncharacteristically difficult stretch. The team gave him an extra seven days between starts after he threw only 65 pitches in Miami.
However, during their game against the Detroit Tigers at PNC Park, Skenes surrendered three earned runs on four hits and four walks over 4 ⅓ innings, finishing with 81 pitches. His control has also become an issue as he allowed four walks in three of his last four starts. Despite the two-run deficit, the team won 4-3 on a walk-off.
“I think there’s been a lot of good. I think there’s some stuff, the walks. It’s frustrating. Nobody wants to go out there and walk anybody. Nobody’s trying to,” Paul Skenes said.
“Felt good. Just a little out of sync, I guess, kind of the whole outing, which probably makes sense a little bit with the longer rotation. But nice to be back.”
Skenes further added that having more time between starts has left him feeling “a little too fresh,” which might have impacted some of the timing issues. Manager Don Kelly noted that they plan to cap him at 85 pitches, with the ace trying to get his rhythm back and turn things around.
Edited by Safeer M S
