Cubs Hit Three Homers Off Skenes in Fifth Inning

Pittsburgh Pirates ace Paul Skenes suffered the toughest start of his MLB career on Thursday, giving up a career-high three home runs—all in the fifth inning to Dansby Swanson, Kyle Tucker, and Seiya Suzuki—in an 8-3 loss to the Chicago Cubs. Skenes, who had entered the game leading the National League in WHIP and with just one homer allowed all season, struggled with command, issuing four walks and striking out only two batters. The Cubs' power surge erased a 2-0 Pirates lead and marked the first time Skenes allowed three homers in a single outing. Despite the setback, Skenes' ERA rose to 2.74 and his WHIP to 0.91, still maintaining strong season numbers. The Pirates' offensive woes persisted, contributing to their 12-20 record and last-place standing in the NL Central. Analysts and teammates remain confident in Skenes' long-term potential despite hitters' apparent adjustments.