Pirates' Rotation Dominates to Start 2026 Season

Pittsburgh's starting pitchers are off to a historic start, leading the league in several key metrics.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 5:10pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a baseball game broken down into fragmented geometric shapes and planes of color, capturing the raw energy and dynamism of the Pirates' starting pitchers.The Pittsburgh Pirates' starting rotation has been a dominant force, breaking down opposing lineups with their collective power and precision.San Diego Today

The Pittsburgh Pirates' starting rotation has been the best in baseball to start the 2026 season. Led by reigning NL Cy Young winner Paul Skenes, the Pirates' starters have yet to allow a home run through their first nine games, the longest such streak to open a season since 2018. Mitch Keller, Carmen Mlodzinski, Braxton Ashcraft, and Bubba Chandler have all contributed strong outings, giving the Pirates one of the most formidable rotations in the majors.

Why it matters

The Pirates' dominant starting pitching has been a key factor in the team's hot start, as they look to make a deep playoff run in 2026. Strong starting pitching is often the foundation of championship teams, and this group has the potential to elevate the Pirates to that level if they can sustain their early-season success.

The details

Through their first nine games, the Pirates' starters have yet to allow a home run, the longest such streak to open a season since the 2018 San Francisco Giants. Paul Skenes, the reigning NL Cy Young winner, has bounced back from a rough season opener against the Mets. Mitch Keller has been the team's most consistent starter, while Carmen Mlodzinski, Braxton Ashcraft, and Bubba Chandler have all contributed quality outings as well.

  • The Pirates' starting rotation has not allowed a home run through their first 9 games of the 2026 season.
  • The last time a team went this long to start a season without allowing a home run was the 2018 San Francisco Giants, who did it for 10 games.

The players

Paul Skenes

The ace of the Pirates' rotation and the reigning NL Cy Young award winner.

Mitch Keller

A veteran starter who has been the most consistent member of the Pirates' rotation to start the season.

Carmen Mlodzinski

A young starter with great stuff who has shown flashes of dominance early in the 2026 season.

Braxton Ashcraft

A highly touted prospect who has finally found success at the major league level after battling injuries early in his career.

Bubba Chandler

A 23-year-old rookie who has impressed in his first two starts, showcasing his high-velocity pitches.

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What they’re saying

“This group of starters is a nightmare for opposing batters. Top to bottom, they've been nearly unhittable.”

— Jaiman White, Author

What’s next

The Pirates will look to continue their dominant starting pitching as they face the San Diego Padres in their next series. Bubba Chandler is set to make his second start of the season against the Padres.

The takeaway

The Pirates' starting rotation has been the best in baseball to start the 2026 season, and if they can maintain this level of performance, they will be a force to be reckoned with as they pursue a deep playoff run.