The Pittsburgh Pirates have made it clear that rookie sensation Paul Skenes will continue to play a pivotal role in their rotation. With no plans to shut him down and no set innings limit for the 2024 season, the 22-year-old right-hander is poised to further establish his dominance on the mound.
Since his debut in early May, Skenes has been nothing short of remarkable. He has made 16 starts for the Pirates, maintaining an impressive average of over six innings per start and approximately 98 pitches per game. Highlighting his stamina and durability, Skenes reached a season-high of 107 pitches in a July 5 matchup against the New York Mets, a performance that further solidified his reputation as a workhorse.
Remarkable Rookie Season
Skenes' stats speak to his effectiveness and efficiency. Despite being a rookie, he has already pitched 98 innings at the big-league level, boasting a 2.30 ERA and a 2.91 FIP. His ability to dominate hitters is evident from his 121 strikeouts, a figure that places him among the top rookie pitchers in recent memory. Such performance has earned him the honor of starting the All-Star Game for the National League, a testament to his skill and rising prominence in the sport.
Reflecting on his journey, it's noteworthy that Skenes was a key player for last season's national-champion LSU Tigers, where he served as the ace, throwing 129 1/3 innings. This experience has undoubtedly shaped his transition to the majors, allowing him to showcase the poise and proficiency expected of a seasoned veteran.
Managing Workload Wisely
As the Pirates navigate through a challenging season, currently sitting seven games below .500 and in last place in the National League Central, they remain mindful of Skenes' workload. According to reports, any attempt to lessen his burden will likely come through shortening some of his 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,” noted Ken Rosenthal, Stephen J. Nesbitt, and Zack Meisel.
So far, Skenes has worked 125 1/3 innings this season, including his tenure with LSU. His towering presence on the mound, standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 235 pounds, is a significant asset to the Pirates' pitching staff. His physical attributes, combined with his exceptional pitching skills, make him a formidable opponent for any lineup.
A Bright Future Ahead
Looking ahead, the Pirates are hopeful that Skenes' continued development will be a cornerstone of their future success. The team is currently 7 1/2 games out of the third and final NL wild-card spot, making every game crucial in their pursuit of a playoff berth. “The present and future are exceptionally bright for Skenes, and he's no doubt a box-office draw even for the flagging Pirates,” commented Rosenthal, Nesbitt, and Meisel.
As Skenes continues to command attention on the mound, Pirates fans and baseball enthusiasts alike are eager to see how his rookie season unfolds. With no innings limit in sight and a strategic approach to managing his workload, it’s clear that both the Pirates and their young star are in for an exciting journey ahead.