Pittsburgh Pirates defeat Phillies 6-1 as Valdez drives RBIs while Skenes struggles in loss

The Pittsburgh Pirates snapped a four‑game series with the Philadelphia Phillies by winning 6‑1 on Thursday. Outfielder Esmerlyn Valdez delivered a triple, a single and two RBIs, and the Pirates added home runs from Endy Rodriguez and Nick Gonzales. Pitcher Jared Jones limited the Phillies to four hits over four innings, and Carmen Mlodzinski threw three scoreless innings for Pittsburgh.

Earlier in the series, the Phillies had beaten the Pirates 10‑6. Trea Turner hit a three‑run homer and Bryce Harper added a two‑run double. Pittsburgh ace Paul Skenes lasted only four innings, surrendering a season‑high seven earned runs on six hits, dropping his record to 6‑8 and extending his winless streak to nine starts. The loss highlighted ongoing concerns about Skenes' performance and velocity.

Both games were played in hot conditions at Citizens Bank Park, with temperatures reaching the mid‑90s. The series showcased contrasting storylines: the Pirates' offensive surge led by Valdez and the Phillies' offensive power, while the Pirates' pitching rotation, especially Skenes, continued to face challenges.