Paul Skenes strikes out 10, including 7 of first 8 batters, but Pirates' defense falters in loss to Cubs

Paul Skenes delivered a strong performance by striking out 10 batters, including 7 of the first 8, but the Pittsburgh Pirates fell to the Chicago Cubs with a final score of 7-2. Despite Skenes' efforts, the team's defense faltered, leading to another disappointing loss for the Pirates.

This loss is significant for Skenes, who has been striving to regain his form after recent struggles. The defeat underscores the challenges the Pirates face in supporting their pitchers, particularly in high-pressure situations.

The ongoing inconsistency in the Pirates' performance highlights a broader issue within the team, as Skenes has had to shoulder much of the burden. His previous strong outings, including a historic milestone and impressive strikeout streaks, contrast sharply with the team's overall struggles, raising questions about the support and cohesion within the roster.