Paul Skenes named Pirates 2026 Opening Day starter
Paul Skenes will start for the Pirates in the first game of the season, because of course.
CINCINNATI, OHIO - SEPTEMBER 24: Paul Skenes #30 of the Pittsburgh Pirates throws during a baseball game against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park on September 24, 2025 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Jeff Dean/Getty Images) | Getty Images As if there was any doubt, the reigning National League Cy Young Award winner will start the first game of the year. The Pittsburgh Pirates announced on Thursday that Paul Skenes will get the ball in New York to start Opening Day against the Mets.
“Duh,” the Pirates tweeted. Duh. pic.
twitter. com/aKIelvOpzj — Pittsburgh Pirates (@Pirates) March 19, 2026 Skenes tallied 1. 97 ERA and struck out 216 batters in 187.
2 innings, the most strikeouts but a Pirates starting pitcher in franchise history. Skenes only allowed 31 earned runs and totaled a 0. 95 WHIP en route to his first Cy Young.