Paul Skenes, the Pittsburgh Pirates’ ace pitcher, has taken the MLB by storm in 2025, showcasing the dominance that made him the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 draft. With a blend of precision, power, and mental toughness, Skenes is redefining what it means to be a modern-day ace. Let’s break down his latest performance, career milestones, and why he’s quickly becoming a household name in baseball.
2025 Season So Far: A Masterclass in Pitching
Skenes has started the 2025 season with a bang, posting a 2-1 record, 2.96 ERA, and 26 strikeouts in four starts . His most recent outing against the St. Louis Cardinals on April 8 was a highlight: he tossed seven shutout innings, allowing just three hits and zero walks while striking out six . This performance underscores his ability to dominate even against top-tier lineups, as the Cardinals entered the game with a league-leading .297 batting average .
What sets Skenes apart is his “splinker”—a hybrid sinker/splitter that drops over 30 inches, making it nearly unhittable in key counts. In 2024, this pitch was the most valuable sinker in MLB, and he’s leaning into it more in 2025, using it to generate swings and misses in critical moments . His fastball, averaging 99 mph, and devastating breaking pitches (curveball, slider, sweeper) create a five-pitch mix that keeps hitters off balance.
From Rookie to Cy Young Contender: A Historic 2024 Season
Skenes’ rookie campaign in 2024 was nothing short of historic. He posted an MLB-best 1.96 ERA over 133 innings, striking out 170 batters—a Pirates franchise rookie record . His 5.9 WAR ranked among the highest for a rookie pitcher since Jose Fernandez in 2013 .
Key highlights from 2024 include:
- All-Star Selection: Skenes became the youngest Pirates pitcher to start an All-Star Game since Dock Ellis in 1971.
- NL Rookie of the Year: He edged out stiff competition to claim the award, solidifying his status as baseball’s top young talent .
- MLB Debut: In his second start, he nearly threw a no-hitter, carrying a perfect game into the fifth inning against the Chicago Cubs .
The Mental Edge: Skenes’ Approach to the Game
Skenes’ success isn’t just physical—his mental discipline is equally impressive. He prioritizes silence and self-reflection to refine his craft, often practicing sound-free workouts to minimize distractions . This mindset helps him stay composed under pressure, as seen in his response to the Pirates’ slow start in 2025: “We’ve got to play better,” he told ESPN, emphasizing accountability over external criticism .
His work ethic and focus have drawn comparisons to legendary pitchers like Justin Verlander. LSU coach Jay Johnson, who mentored Skenes in college, praises his “remarkable consistency,” noting that his preparation and discipline set him apart .
Impact Beyond the Mound: Skenes as a Franchise Cornerstone
Skenes’ influence extends far beyond his stats. He’s become the face of the Pirates’ rebuilding effort, a rare bright spot for a team that’s struggled in recent years. Despite the Pirates’ early-season struggles (4-7 record as of April 8), Skenes’ starts are must-watch events, drawing national attention to a franchise that’s often overlooked .
Off the field, his relationship with gymnast Olivia Dunne—a star in her own right—has made him a pop culture figure. The couple’s shared success at LSU and now in their professional careers has turned them into a “power couple” in sports .
What’s Next for Skenes?
As Skenes looks ahead to the rest of the 2025 season, he aims to increase his workload, targeting seven or eight innings per start instead of the six-inning limit he had as a rookie . Analysts predict he could reach 192 innings, putting him in contention for the Cy Young Award .
His growth as a pitcher continues with adjustments like attacking right-handed hitters inside and expanding his changeup usage. In September 2024, he began experimenting with the changeup against righties, a move that paid off with five swinging strikes in 10 pitches . If he can master this pitch, he’ll become even more dominant.
Why Skenes Is a Must-Follow in 2025
Paul Skenes isn’t just another rookie phenom—he’s a generational talent rewriting the playbook for pitchers. His combination of raw talent, mental fortitude, and willingness to evolve makes him a thrilling player to watch. Whether he’s striking out batters with his splinker or engaging fans with his humility, Skenes is a rising star who embodies the future of baseball.
Keep an eye on his next start against the Cleveland Guardians on April 19. With each outing, he’s not just building a legacy—he’s redefining what it means to dominate on the mound.