Dodgers vs Pirates Preview: Pitching Duel in Week 63

The Dodgers are sending Eric Lauer to the pitcher's mound on Tuesday. Los Angeles comes to PNC Park sitting pretty at 42-24, fresh off a loss that snapped their hot streak. Lauer needs to deliver for a team chasing a third straight championship. Behind Lauer, the Dodgers' pitching staff is stacked with elite arms like Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Their lineup is dangerous too. Pittsburgh's 34-32 record shows they're fighting hard. This matchup sets up as a classic pitching duel at PNC Park.

Paul Skenes is Pittsburgh's ace. The 22-year-old brings superstar energy every time he takes the mound. He played at LSU and the Air Force before joining the Pirates in 2024. Skenes gives Pittsburgh a legitimate shot to win any game he starts. Mitch Keller provides steady support behind him. The Pirates need Skenes to dominate while the bullpen protects the leads he creates. This game comes down to whether Pittsburgh's star pitcher can outshine the Dodgers' powerful lineup.

You're about to see two incredible pitching staffs clash at PNC Park. The Dodgers just lost their last game, so they're hungry to bounce back. Pittsburgh is on a three-game losing streak and needs a win badly. Both teams rely heavily on their starting pitchers to set the tone. The Dodgers' depth makes them favored, but Skenes can steal any game. Will Smith might return to catching for LA after his neck injury. Oneil Cruz and Brandon Lowe should be ready for Pittsburgh after minor injuries. Buckle up for a tense battle on Tuesday night.