Paul Skenes Explains Why Velocity Concerns Are 'Funny' After Slump in 1st Half of 2026 MLB Season

Pittsburgh Pirates ace Paul Skenes wasn't worried about questions surrounding his fastball velocity despite his recent struggles.

"I think it's funny that they only ask when I don't have a good outing," Skenes told reporters Monday. "It's funny. In those outings, I don't think I really got damaged on my four-seamer. I don't think velocity is something that I need to pitch well. I think it's probably the first time in my career the velo has kinda dipped. It's not something that I'm stressed over at all. I'm healthy. I'm feeling good and still pitching at a high level."

The reigning National League Cy Young Award winner hasn't looked like his usual self as of late, owning an 8-8 record to go along with a 3.57 ERA this season, going 2-3 with a 5.29 ERA in his past six starts.

At one point, Pittsburgh lost nine straight games started by Skenes this season.

The velocity of Skenes' four-seam fastball has decreased from 98.2 miles per hour in 2025 to 96.9 miles per hour this year (via Statcast).

Still, Sports Illustrated's Tom Verducci noted that the right-hander was allowing a mere .188 average on his four-seamer as of July 7. It represented the best mark of Skenes' career.

While the 24-year-old is still looking to bounce back throughout the second half of the season, velocity isn't a concern for him.