The Philadelphia Phillies completed a three-game sweep of the Pittsburgh Pirates on Sunday, handing their in-state rivals their fifth loss in their past six games. The Pirates’ loss came despite having ace pitcher Paul Skenes on the mound, and going up against Phillies rookie Mick Abel, who was making the first MLB start of his career.

A little over a month ago, on April 14, the Pirates put up 10 runs in a win against the Nationals. Paul Skenes had a quality start and picked up a win, and things were looking up for the Pirates’ ace right-hander.

The Pittsburgh Pirates have one of the best pitchers in baseball, but have done little to convince him to remain with them beyond his current contract.

The Pirates’ 1-0 loss in Philadelphia (28-18) on Sunday was their third in a row and 13th in 16 tries this month. The Bucs (15-23) have already been shut out a major-league-leading eight times this season.

It was only a matter of time before a league desperate for attention found its own version of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce. MLB struggles mightily to market it

The Pittsburgh Pirates are headed toward being sellers at the trade deadline. Could they ever consider trading Paul Skenes well before he hits free agency?

Off? It’s tough to do when the game’s best pitchers pass on playing. But now they have a star on board. Will more follow?

While each faces its uphill battle, it’s the Pirates who carry the heaviest burden and the highest stakes. Guess what, their stake is on Paul Skenes! Well, with mounting losses and little sign of consistent progress,