Wednesday was the first day of spring training for the Pittsburgh Pirates, with pitchers and catchers reporting to Bradenton, Florida.
That includes Pirates ace Paul Skenes, who’s fresh off winning the NL Cy Young Award unanimously.
Many pitchers come into spring training looking to add a new pitch, try a new grip or alter their repertoire. It’s a good time to experiment and tinker before real games start.
Accordingly, Pittsburgh fans might be wondering if Skenes is planning to change up his arsenal at all this year.
Pirates ace Paul Skenes says there is no “sleeper” (slower version of his sweeper) or cutter being added to his seven-pitch repertoire, but he does share a goal. pic.twitter.com/8vpExgsggl
— Kevin Gorman (@KevinGormanPGH) February 11, 2026
The two-time All-Star told reporters on Wednesday that he’s not planning to add a “sleeper” (a slow sweeper) or a cutter this year. He already throws seven pitches, which is more than enough.
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“Pretty much the same stuff, hopefully better,” Skenes said regarding his repertoire.
When asked about his goals for the year, Skenes replied, “Make the playoffs.” He also said he hopes to start the year strong, healthy and throwing strikes.
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In other words, Skenes hopes to pick up where he left off last year. That shouldn’t be too difficult for him, as he’s one of the best pitchers in baseball.
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