Skenes and Pirates overpower D-backs

Paul Skenes pitched six shutout innings for the second consecutive start to lead the hosts Pittsburgh Pirates to a 6-0 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks on Sunday afternoon.

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Skenes (6-8) gave up three hits, walked one and struck out nine on 99 pitches to lead the Pirates to the series victory and second consecutive shutout win over the Diamondbacks. Skenes has not allowed a run in 13 consecutive innings, and he lowered his ERA to 1.83 — the lowest in the majors. After Sunday’s start, Skenes lowered his career ERA to 1.89 over his first 266 innings.

Pittsburgh's Oneil Cruz finished with two hits, including a double, and two RBIs; Tommy Pham had two hits and an RBI and Bryan Reynolds had an RBI double.

Arizona starter Zac Gallen (7-12) allowed all four Pirates runs on five hits and one walk while striking out five over six innings. Jake McCarthy had a triple and a double to lead the Diamondbacks, who lost for the fifth time in six games.