Paul Skenes Shows No Signs of Slowing Down in Impressive Rookie Season
The Pittsburgh Pirates have found a true gem in 22-year-old right-hander Paul Skenes. With no plans to shut him down and no set innings limit for 2024, the Pirates seem committed to riding this wave of talent for as long as it takes them. Skenes, standing a formidable 6-foot-6 and weighing 235 pounds, has certainly made his presence felt since his arrival in early May.
Skenes has been a beacon of consistency and dominance, making 16 starts and averaging over six innings per outing. His durability is exemplified not just in length but also in pitch count, averaging around 98 pitches per game. A season-high 107 pitches against the New York Mets on July 5 further underscores his ability to shoulder a significant workload.
With 98 innings pitched at the big-league level, Skenes has maintained an impressive 2.30 ERA and a 2.91 FIP, highlighting his efficiency and effectiveness on the mound. His commanding presence is amplified by his 121 strikeouts, a testament to his overpowering stuff and poise under pressure.
Notably, Skenes earned the honor of starting the All-Star Game for the National League, a rare feat for a rookie and a sign of his growing reputation in the league. His rapid ascent to stardom is perhaps no surprise to those who followed his collegiate career. Last season, Skenes was the ace of the national-champion LSU Tigers, where he logged 129 1/3 innings and demonstrated the same blend of power and precision that has translated seamlessly to the majors.
Despite the Pirates' struggles this season—they entered Monday's slate seven games below .500 and sit in last place in the National League Central—Skenes has been a bright spot and a reason for optimism. The team is currently 7 1/2 games out of the third and final NL wild-card spot, facing an uphill battle to salvage their postseason hopes.
The Pirates' strategy for managing Skenes' workload in his rookie season has been carefully considered. "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," noted Ken Rosenthal, Stephen J. Nesbitt, and Zack Meisel. This approach suggests the Pirates are keen on balancing development with caution, ensuring Skenes remains a pivotal fixture in their rotation.
The potential for Skenes to become a box-office draw even in a challenging season for the Pirates is significant. As Rosenthal, Nesbitt, and Meisel articulate, "The present and future are exceptionally bright for Skenes, and he's no doubt a box-office draw even for the flagging Pirates." His performances have not only provided immediate excitement but have also laid the groundwork for what could be a cornerstone piece in Pittsburgh's future.
As Skenes continues to evolve and hone his craft, the Pirates will undoubtedly look to maximize his potential while carefully monitoring his workload. With 125 1/3 innings pitched this season, including his time with LSU, the balance between growth and caution will be critical. For now, however, it appears the Pirates have every intention of letting their young star shine as brightly—and as often—as possible.