Paul Skenes Leads Pirates Toward Wild‑Card Spot Ahead of Reds Series

Cy Young Award winner Paul Skenes, the Pittsburgh Pirates' ace, entered a stretch of games with the team 2½ games behind the final National League wild‑card position. He is set to start the Friday matchup against the Cincinnati Reds after his last outing resulted in a loss to the Chicago Cubs. Despite a 9‑9 record and a 3.65 ERA, Skenes said the Pirates are blocking out the noise and focusing on playing their game, adding that the upcoming trade deadline will not alter the team's approach.

Off the field, Skenes’ girlfriend, Instagram influencer Olivia Dunne, appeared with him at the 2026 All‑Star Game red carpet and shared a Baywatch‑themed selfie from the television set, highlighting his growing public profile alongside his on‑field responsibilities.