On July 11, 2024, rookie pitcher Paul Skenes delivered a memorable performance for the Pittsburgh Pirates as he no-hit the Milwaukee Brewers through seven innings, leading his team to a 1-0 victory in the rubber match of a three-game series.
Skenes, making his 11th start in the major leagues, displayed excellent command on the mound as he walked only one batter and struck out a career-high-tying 11. Despite his dominant outing, Pittsburgh manager Derek Shelton decided to pull him ahead of the eighth inning after throwing 99 pitches, with 65 strikes.
Reliever Colin Holderman took over for Skenes in the eighth inning and immediately allowed Milwaukee to break up the no-hitter. Jake Bauers led off with a single, followed by a hit from Garrett Mitchell. Holderman managed to strike out two batters and walk one to load the bases before escaping the inning unscathed.
In the bottom of the eighth, the Brewers had their best chance to score as they loaded the bases with one out. However, All-Star William Contreras was unable to capitalize, striking out on a 2-2 count against Holderman.
Closer Aroldis Chapman sealed the victory for the Pirates with a 1-2-3 ninth inning, earning his fourth save of the season.
Offensively, Yasmani Grandal provided the lone run for Pittsburgh with an RBI double in the seventh inning. Andrew McCutchen contributed with a 1-for-2 performance and two walks.
On the opposing side, Milwaukee starter Aaron Civale pitched well, allowing only one run on six hits in 6 1/3 innings. Bauers and Mitchell recorded the only hits for the Brewers as they struggled to generate offense throughout the game.
The game had its share of tense moments, with both teams missing opportunities to score early on. Despite the Brewers’ late rally in the eighth, the Pirates’ pitching staff held strong to secure the victory.
With the win, Pittsburgh improved their record while Milwaukee suffered their fifth loss in seven games. The game highlighted the importance of pitching and timely hitting in securing a close victory in Major League Baseball.
In conclusion, Paul Skenes’ outstanding performance on the mound propelled the Pittsburgh Pirates to a hard-fought win over the Milwaukee Brewers, showcasing the excitement and unpredictability of baseball.
