Morning Rundown: Paul Skenes suffers first loss, Pirates sign draft picks

Skenes pitches into ninth for first time but still picks up first lost of major league career

Jul 24, 2024

For the first time in his major league career, Paul Skenes pitched into the ninth inning. Also, for the first time in his major league career, he was hit with a loss.

Skenes pitched 8.1 innings and allowed two runs, but the Pirates ended up losing a close one to the St. Louis Cardinals, evening the series at one game a piece.

Nick Gonzales drove in the only run of the day for the Pirates, an RBI single that scored Oneil Cruz.

It’s just the third time in 12 starts that Skenes has allowed more than one run in a start.

The Pirates will have an opportunity to win the series with Martin Perez on the mound with a day game before going on the road for six in Arizona and Houston.

The Pittsburgh Pirates announced the signings of six draft picks, five on Monday and another on Tuesday.

The following players have signed recently,

3rd - LHP - Josh Hartle ($850,000)

6th - RHP - Matt Ager ($357,400)

7th - LHP - Connor Wietgrefe ($247,500)

8th - RHP - Gavin Adams ($172,500)

9th - SS - Duce Gourson ($187,500)

10th - Derek Berg ($172,500)

That means there are still 15 draft picks left to sign for the Pirates. They also haven’t made any undrafted free-agent signings as well.

Some quick injury notes that were announced today.

Bailey Falter will make a rehab start with Indianapolis on Wednesday
Jared Jones is playing catch on flat ground. The hope is to have a bullpen session this weekend.
Endy Rodriguez is now hitting from both sides. In early August, there will be a discussion about him hitting as a DH in some minor league games.
Braxton Ashcraft is expected back on the mound in 7-10 days. He had been on the IL with lateral forearm tightness.

Indianapolis Indians sent RHP Brad Case on a rehab assignment to Bradenton Marauders
Indianapolis Indians activated LF Billy McKinney from the 7-day injured list
Pittsburgh Pirates sent RHP Hunter Stratton on a rehab assignment to Indianapolis Indians
Indianapolis Indians transferred SS Mike Jarvis to the Development List

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