Paul Skenes threw 53 pitches in 2 1/3 innings in his first outing of spring training but the Pittsburgh Pirates lost to the host Atlanta Braves 3-1 on Wednesday in a Grapefruit League at North Port, Fla

The reigning National League Cy Young Award winner allowed one run. However, the Pirates’ record fell to 4-2.

Center fielder Oneil Cruz went 2 for 2 with a walk from the leadoff spot and scored the Pirates’ lone run.

Veteran Mike Clevenger pitched two scoreless innings of relief in his first game with the Pirates. In camp as a non-roster player, Clevinger is in the competition to be the fifth starter or a long reliever.

Jarod Bayless (0-1) was the losing pitcher.