The Pirates have pitched 13 shutouts. That's second in MLB.
The Pirates' WHIP is 1.20. That's third in MLB.
The Pirates' ERA is 3.75. That's ninth in MLB.
Imagine if the Pirates could hit just a bit better.
But there are too many games like Friday's, when the Pirates got just one hit in 11 innings during a 1-0 loss to Arizona at PNC Park.
That would have been a 14th shutout. Instead, it's just a loss.
I didn't think Paul Skenes could get the National League Cy Young Award if he has a losing record.
Now, I'm not so sure.
Skenes is 6-8, but has MLB's best ERA at 1.83. His WHIP ranks fourth at 0.90.
Skenes alternates between overwhelming and crafty. He was both when he handcuffed Arizona in Sunday's 6-0 victory at PNC Park.
In six innings, Skenes allowed three hits and one walk while striking out nine. He pitched his way out of a few jams, stranding runners at third base on three occasions.
Skenes is the best pitcher in baseball.
It's going to suck when Skenes leaves. He may get traded as soon as after next season. When arbitration awards him around $30 million.
Dave Parker was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame on Sunday.
His plaque is the last that will feature a Pirates' "P" on the player's cap.
No great players will stick around long enough to identify as Pirates. That's been the case for decades.