PHILADELPHIA — Mick Abel stayed under control in his major league debut. Abel outdueled Paul Skenes, striking out nine over six innings to lead Philadelphia over the Pittsburgh Pirates 1-0 Sunday for a three-game sweep and the Phillies’ 15th win in 20 games.

Mick Abel outdueled Paul Skenes to win his major league debut, striking out nine over six innings to lead Philadelphia over the Pittsburgh Pirates 1-0 Sunday.

Alvarado’s suspension and unavailability for October all but guarantee that Dombrowski will swing a deal for a reliever at the trade deadline.

Alvarado tested positive for exogenous testosterone, a performance-enhancing drug, according to MLB. He will not be eligible for the postseason.

The Philadelphia Phillies were dealt an unfortunate blow to the bullpen on Sunday after veteran right-hander Jose Alvarado was suspended for 80 games after violating MLB's Joint Prevention and Treatment program, per multiple reports.

The Pirates manager said the former first-round pick had “electric stuff” in the pitchers’ duel against Paul Skenes.

Zack Wheeler pitched six shutout innings, Bryson Stott homered and drove in three runs, and the Philadelphia Phillies defeated the Pittsburgh Pirates 5-2

Pregame analysis and predictions of the Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Philadelphia Phillies MLB game to be played on May 18, 2025 on ESPN.

Preview the May 18 matchup between the Pittsburgh Pirates and Philadelphia Phillies with recent trends, how to watch, livestream info, and more.