The Phillies and Pirates are set to conclude their three-game set with a pitching clash between Zack Wheeler and Paul Skenes. The match-up is scheduled for Sunday at PNC Park. This will be the first regular-season game where the two pitchers have faced each other.
Skenes’s Dominance Against Philadelphia
Skenes has an impressive record against the Phillies, despite his young career. In two starts against them last season, he went 0-1. However, he maintained a 0.57 ERA across 15 2/3 innings, allowing just one run and striking out 16 batters.
Wheeler’s Performance Against Pittsburgh
Wheeler’s career stats against the Pirates show his strength. He holds a 5-1 record with a 2.38 ERA in nine starts. His last appearance against Pittsburgh was exactly one year prior to Sunday’s game. In that game, he allowed three hits over six scoreless innings in a 5-2 Phillies victory.
Skenes’s Recent Form
Skenes has been remarkably consistent this season. Since one outing where he allowed five runs on Opening Day, he has only allowed more than one run once. He has also held opponents scoreless four times, including in his past two starts. Since his big league debut in 2024, Skenes has the lowest ERA (1.97) of any regular starting pitcher.
Key Players to Watch
The Phillies’ Kyle Schwarber, with over 20 home runs this season, poses a threat to Skenes. Bryce Harper also presents a challenge with a 1.099 OPS in May. For the Pirates, Brandon Lowe has an OPS well north of .900 in May. Ryan O’Hearn, Oneil Cruz and Spencer Horwitz have also been performing strongly.
Both teams are aiming for a postseason position. Sunday’s game offers them a chance to compete against playoff-calibre pitching and could be a preview of things to come.