Paul Skenes was masterful on Wednesday night — but after his team’s 2-1 loss to the Orioles in 10 innings at Camden Yards in Baltimore, the night had the feel of what could have been.

Skenes was removed after five innings and 64 pitches. He’d allowed just two hits. He’d struck out eight, including his 200th of the season. Yet with the Pirates well out of playoff contention and seeking to limit Skenes’ innings and keep him healthy for the long term, Skenes’ day was cut short.

On the SportsNet Pittsburgh telecast, team broadcaster Greg Brown called it a “circumstance of where this team is.” The team went on to lose its fifth straight, falling in extra innings on on right fielder Dylan Beavers’ bases-loaded single off right-hander Kyle Nicolas.

The Pirates are now 64-82, clinching the fran

See Full Page