In the opener of the Braves series, Pittsburgh starter Paul Skenes will toe the mound. This matchup could be favorable for Atlanta, as Skenes has endured a rough stretch recently, losing his last nine MLB starts. Yet his underlying numbers remain solid, with an ERA hovering around the mid-3.00s and roughly 120 strikeouts on the season, signaling elite velocity and strikeout capability when he’s in rhythm.
During the Braves series, the Pirates announced a notable MLB signing, adding a seasoned veteran to the roster.
Pirates Sign Joshua Palacios
The Pirates agreed to terms with free-agent outfielder Joshua Palacios on a five-year MLB contract, with the terms specified as a minor league arrangement. Palacios has been assigned to Pittsburgh’s Triple-A affiliate, the Indianapolis Indians, to begin his latest stint in the organization.
Palacios had not been part of an MLB organization earlier in the season and had not appeared in a major league game in 2025. He last played for the Chicago White Sox in the 2024 season, contributing across parts of two campaigns with the club. His arrival gives the Pirates depth in the outfield and an immediate option for Triple-A Indianapolis, potentially providing a future path back to the majors.
Context and implications
– The signing signals the Pirates’ intent to bolster depth and flexibility in the outfield, particularly as the season progresses and rosters evolve due to injuries, performance, and strategic needs.
– Palacios has prior major league experience, including time with the Pirates in 2023 and 2024, where he added power and versatility to his contributions. His track record suggests he can provide depth in the upper minors and offer a potential call-up option if called upon.
– For the Indianapolis Indians, Palacios will bring veteran presence and depth to a roster aiming to compete for a playoff position in the Triple-A circuit.
Looking ahead
The Pirates’ upcoming series against the Braves will test the pitching staff and the depth chart, especially given Skenes’ recent form and the challenge of facing a strong Atlanta lineup. Pittsburgh will look to maximize opportunities in the bullpen and offense, while Palacios settles into his new surroundings in the organization.
Overall, the Pirates are continuing to shape their roster with strategic moves to maintain competitive balance as the season progresses, aligning short-term needs with longer-term development goals. Fans can expect continued updates on roster moves and performances as the team navigates a dense and demanding schedule.
