Paul Skenes Caps Historic Season as Pirates Show Playoff Intensity vs Reds

Paul Skenes closes out a remarkable rookie season with a 1.97 ERA, capping an intense Pirates–Reds series that felt like October baseball. In this episode of NS9LIVE, we break down: The fiery energy from Pittsburgh as they finish strong against Cincinnati How Skenes’ historic numbers set the tone for the future MLB’s new Automated Ball/Strike (ABS) system arriving in 2026 Why the Pirates’ evolving 5-inning + bulk reliever strategy could unlock a dominant 2026 pitching staff