Paul Skenes is in a routine. The 23-year-old Pittsburgh Pirates ace worked 7 2/3 innings against the Philadelphia Phillies, giving up one unearned run on two hits with seven strikeouts and one walk. Skenes remained 4-6 in his sophomore season despite lowering his ERA to 1.

A series sweep had eluded the Pittsburgh Pirates entering Sunday in what’s been a disappointing 2025 campaign. But after two straight wins against their cross state rival Philadelphia Phillies, a sweep was within grasp at PNC Park.