Here's an excerpt from my latest TribLive.com column:
The Pirates are just 9-7 in games started by Paul Skenes. (Who now, logically, figures to be shut down in September.)
Skenes is a true phenom.
So far, he's been wasted in Pittsburgh.
You've got to hit for him. The bullpen needs to be better once Skenes is relieved. He pitches every sixth day, and not always deep into games. His impact on winning has somehow been minimal.
The great unwashed fantasize about Skenes staying in Pittsburgh long-term.
Why would he want to? Skenes and his agent are plotting his escape even now.
To read the entire column, click HERE.
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