It hasn't taken long for rookie sensation Paul Skenes to become one of the most talked about and praised players in the MLB. The first-overall pick in the 2023 MLB Draft, Skenes has quickly proven that he was not only worth the top spot in his class but that he might already be one of the best pitchers in the world.
In his first season in the MLB, Skenes continually left fans, opponents and teammates blown away by his abilities on the mound. The 22-year-old was electric this season, posting an outstanding 11-3 record with a 1.96 ERA and 170 strikeouts over 133.0 innings of work.
Thanks to that tremendous performance, he was named the 2024 National League Rookie of the Year.
Skenes' skill is undeniable, however, according to his own Pirates teammate Nick Gonzales, the pitcher's discipline and commitment to his routine is another reason behind his greatness. Gonzales spoke of the pitching phenom during an interview with "MLB Network Radio."
"His ability to go out every single day and do what he needed to do regardless of whether he is pitching in two days, three days, he has his routine and he knows what he's doing. One of the most disciplined guys I have ever seen, especially being a young and as newly drafted as he is," Gonzales said of the rookie superstar.
It appears that the sky is the limit for Paul Skenes if he can stay healthy. With a winning mindset, an electric triple-digit fastball, and a varying arsenal of pitches, the Pittsburgh Pirates may have a generational talent on their hands.
"He's a workhorse," Gonzales continued. He does everything he needs to do every single day and it's an honor to be his teammate."
Although the Pittsburgh Pirates have been rebuilding for several years, now that they have a true MLB superstar on their hands, the front office may need to build up the roster around him.
The Pirates are going to need to capitalize on Paul Skenes' elite pitching and add the talent required to become contenders in the National League.
The Paul Skenes craze has taken over the baseball card-collecting game
It turns out that Skenes' dominance in the MLB as a rookie has transcended the sport itself and has made him the most sought-after name in card collecting.
While landing the hottest rookie card has always been the name of the game when it comes to collecting baseball cards, the Pirates superstar has taken it to another level.
Without question, one of the most sought-after baseball cards on the planet right now is the Paul Skenes Topps Rookie Debut Patch card. It is expected to change the life of whichever lucky collector finds it.
The Pittsburgh Pirates have offered home plate season tickets for 30 years to the person who finds it. Skenes' girlfriend Olivia Dunne has even offered a seat in her private suite as part of the reward.