Standing in line for hours to get a tiny version of your idol, only to be disappointed. On Saturday, Pittsburgh’s scenario was one of a human river of black and gold streaming into PNC Park. Every person was anxious to hold a Paul Skenes bobblehead. But all the excitement faded away. Why? The Cleveland Guardians shut out the Pittsburgh Pirates in a 3-0 game.
Everything was in favor, the stadium was packed, and the stage was set. Everyone was hoping for the Pirates to register a win and make the day more special. In addition, Paul Skenes recorded his 200th career strikeout in just his 28th start, tying a club record for the fewest appearances required to reach that mark. But they still lost. What’s Skenes’ take on this?
Paul Skenes’ statements in the silent aftermath had profound emotional weight. Celebrated on his strikeout record, he answered with a straightforward, sincere wish. In the post-match, he had few words to say about his record, “Appreciate it, hopefully there are a whole lot more to get.” When asked about the thousands of supporters lining the streets for his bobblehead, his answer was grounded and modest. He said, “I didn’t, yes I mean I saw the full stadium of school, but I didn’t see all that.” Paul Skenes’ further added, “It’s cool. Wish we would’ve gotten them a win,” and his replies made it evident that he was not happy about losing.
Paul Skenes on the lines for his bobblehead today & a packed PNC park
“It’s cool. Wish we would’ve gotten them a win.” pic.twitter.com/Wk4rUnHDgi
— SportsNet Pittsburgh (@SNPittsburgh) April 19, 2025
The Pirates’ failure to seize scoring opportunities—including a bases-loaded scenario in the sixth inning that resulted in a double play—shadows the game. Hitting a 411-foot home run off Skenes that landed in the Allegheny River, the Guardians’ Kyle Manzardo created a turning point in the seventh inning. This represented Manzardo’s fifth home run of the season, extending Cleveland’s lead. Setting the pattern for the Guardians’ attack, Steven Kwan also added an RBI single in the third inning.
Led by Ben Lively and backed by four relievers, Cleveland’s pitching staff successfully suppressed the Pirates’ bats, restricting them to six hits and guaranteeing the team’s fourth shutout of the season. Emmanuel Clase closed the game to get his fourth save.
One thing is clear: Paul Skenes‘ emphasis was on the team’s performance rather than on individual glory. The common goal for a triumph on a day designated for celebration was the driving force. But it was more than just a bobblehead and 200th strike – there was a dubious call that also played a part in the Pirates losing to the Guardians.
Controversial call at 3B resulted in a loss for Paul Skenes and Co?
The game was not going in the Pirates’ favor, and then a controversial foul call? A dubious call at the bottom of the ninth inning crushed the Pittsburgh Pirates’ dreams of a comeback against the Cleveland Guardians. Trailing 3-0, Enmanuel Valdez tried to stretch a deep ball into center field into a triple. He went headfirst into third base safely but seemed to have injured his left shoulder, so he briefly raised his hand off the bag. Jose Ramirez, the third baseman, applied the tag, and following a review, Valdez was pronounced out, therefore quelling the Pirates’ surge.
Managing only six hits and going 0-for-6 with runners in scoring position, the Pirates’ attack faltered all through the game. Their finest chance presented itself in the sixth inning when they loaded the bases with one out; unfortunately, a double play stopped the threat. Starting pitcher Paul Skenes gave a great effort, allowing just two runs over seven innings, but the Pirates missed an opportunity to score.
The Pirates had a hard time getting into a groove at the plate, while the Cleveland Guardians’ pitching staff didn’t let down. Led by starter Ben Lively and four relievers, the Guardians’ pitching staff came together for their fourth season shutout. Steven Kwan’s RBI single in the third inning and Kyle Manzardo’s solo home run in the seventh, which dropped in the Allegheny River, set Cleveland’s pace offensively. The Pirates dropped their record to 8–14 and registered their fourth shutout loss of the season.
The team wasn’t happy with the game’s result, especially the foul call involving Valdez. When the Pirates square off against the Guardians in the series’ last game, they will seek to escape a series sweep. The club wants to reorganize and establish consistency both defensively and forward, as the season is still young.
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