Paul Skenes tamed the Tigers in another sterling performance on the mound Monday night to help the Pirates secure their 40th win.

PITTSBURGH — Paul Skenes wants the ball. All the time. Yet the only pitcher in major league history to start the All-Star Game in each of his first two seasons also understands the Pittsburgh Pirates are intent on playing the long game with his electric right arm.

Paul Skenes allowed three hits over six efficient innings and the Pittsburgh Pirates beat the Detroit Tigers 3-0 on Monday night. Skenes (5-8), who last week became the first pitcher to start the All-Star game in each of the first two years of his career,