In the midst of a challenging season, the Pittsburgh Pirates find solace and excitement in the burgeoning talent of rookie pitcher Paul Skenes. With impressive statistics and a growing fan base, the team has decided to keep him active with no plans to shut him down despite the rigors of his first Major League season.
A Standout Rookie Season
Paul Skenes, a 22-year-old right-hander, has quickly established himself as a crucial player since his arrival in Pittsburgh in early May. Skenes has made 16 starts for the Pirates, consistently delivering strong performances. Averaging over six innings per start and close to 98 pitches per game, he has become a reliable figure on the mound.
One of his standout moments came on July 5, when he reached a season-high of 107 pitches against the New York Mets. This game epitomizes the endurance and skill Skenes has showcased throughout the season, culminating in a total of 98 innings pitched at the big-league level. His stats reflect his effectiveness, boasting a 2.30 ERA and a 2.91 FIP, along with an impressive 121 strikeouts thus far.
No Set Innings Limit
The Pirates have no set innings limit for Skenes for the 2024 season, a move that signals confidence in his abilities and resilience. However, there is a consideration to manage his workload by possibly shortening his starts instead of skipping them entirely. This approach aims to allow Skenes to "finish out what has thus far looked like a Rookie of the Year season," as noted by sports journalists Ken Rosenthal, Stephen J. Nesbitt, and Zack Meisel.
Skenes’ overall workload this season, including his time with the national-champion LSU Tigers, totals 125 1/3 innings. This impressive tally highlights his transition from college ace, where he threw 129 1/3 innings, to a mainstay in the Pirates’ rotation, managing the demands of professional baseball with apparent ease.
A Bright Future Amidst Team Struggles
Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 235 pounds, Skenes not only brings physical presence but also a palpable excitement to a Pirates team struggling this season. As the Pirates find themselves seven games below .500 and in last place in the National League Central, Skenes' performances have been a rare highlight. The team is currently 7 1/2 games out of the third and final NL wild-card spot, making any additional wins and positive moments invaluable for both the team and its fan base.
The Pirates' brass seems aware of what Skenes means to the organization beyond the immediate metrics. "The present and future are exceptionally bright for Skenes, and he's no doubt a box-office draw even for the flagging Pirates," write Rosenthal, Nesbitt, and Meisel.
Looking Ahead
Skenes’ trajectory suggests even greater achievements on the horizon. With the Pirates wisely managing his workload, fans can expect to see more of this burgeoning star as he continues to develop and contribute. His role as the National League starter in the All-Star Game is a testament to his remarkable talent and the recognition he is garnering across the league.
As the season progresses, the Pirates will look to Skenes not only to add to his impressive statistics but also to inspire a team and a city hungry for success. Whether or not the Pirates can turn their season around remains to be seen, but with Paul Skenes on the mound, there is certainly a reason to watch.