Paul Skenes Shines in Rookie Season with Pittsburgh Pirates
The Pittsburgh Pirates have no intentions of shutting down their sensational rookie, Paul Skenes, despite a challenging season. The 22-year-old right-hander has been a beacon of hope for the struggling team, and there is no set innings limit for him in 2024. Skenes came to Pittsburgh in early May and has since made 16 starts, averaging over six innings per start and approximately 98 pitches.
On July 5, Skenes notably reached a season-high of 107 pitches in a game against the New York Mets, showcasing his endurance. As of now, he has pitched an impressive 98 innings at the big-league level, boasting a remarkable 2.30 ERA and a 2.91 FIP. Additionally, Skenes has amassed 121 strikeouts, further solidifying his status as one of the league's most promising young pitchers.
Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 235 pounds, Skenes' physical presence on the mound is undeniable. His stature, coupled with his skill, has made him a box-office draw even for the underperforming Pirates. "The present and future are exceptionally bright for Skenes, and he's no doubt a box-office draw even for the flagging Pirates," noted sportswriters Ken Rosenthal, Stephen J. Nesbitt, and Zack Meisel.
Before joining the Pirates, Skenes was a star at LSU, where he played a pivotal role in leading the team to a national championship. As LSU's ace, he threw 129 1/3 innings last season, demonstrating his capability and resilience. Including his time at LSU, Skenes has worked 125 1/3 innings this season, a testament to his durability.
While the Pirates are seven games below .500 and currently sit in last place in the National League Central, they recognize Skenes' value and potential. The team is 7 1/2 games out of the third and final NL wild-card spot, making every game critical. As the season progresses, the Pirates might consider shortening Skenes’ starts rather than skipping them entirely. "Any attempt to lessen his workload would reportedly come in shortening some starts, rather than skipping them entirely, allowing him to finish out what has thus far looked like a Rookie of the Year season," wrote Rosenthal, Nesbitt, and Meisel.
Despite the hurdles, Skenes has continued to impress, even earning the honor of starting the All-Star Game for the National League. His achievements this season have provided a much-needed boost to the team and its fans, serving as a reminder of the bright future that lies ahead for the young pitcher.
As the Pirates navigate through the rest of the season, all eyes will be on Paul Skenes. His performance on the mound not only brings hope for better days but also inspires a beleaguered fan base. The decision to keep him active and manage his workload carefully underscores the team's belief in his talent and potential.
In a season filled with uncertainties, Paul Skenes has emerged as a reliable and exciting player for the Pittsburgh Pirates. As he continues to develop and grow, the team and its supporters eagerly anticipate what the future holds for this remarkable young athlete.