India, March 26 -- Paul Skenes' 2026 season couldn't have begun in worse fashion. The Pittsburgh Pirates ace was pulled after recording just two outs on Opening Day against the New York Mets, marking one of the shortest outings of his career.

Skenes needed 47 pitches to get through just 2/3 of an inning, as the Mets' lineup jumped on him early. He surrendered five earned runs before being taken out, unable to find rhythm or command.

Entering the season as a favorite to win a second consecutive Cy Young award, Skenes was expected to set the tone on Opening Day. Instead, the rough outing immediately raised concerns about his form.

For a pitcher who has dominated since entering the league, the performance stood out for all the wrong reaso...