Paul Skenes’ rise to prominence has been nothing short of remarkable. Skenes was selected first overall by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 2023 MLB Draft, capping off a brilliant collegiate career that included leading LSU to a national championship.
The towering right-hander brought with him not only a fastball that regularly reaches triple digits, but also an unparalleled calmness that has translated flawlessly to the major leagues. Skenes, who has just begun his professional career, is already making headlines as one of baseball’s most exciting young arms.
Paul Skenes’ Rise to the Top
Skenes quickly established himself at LSU as one of college baseball’s most dominant pitchers. His 2023 season was historic, with a 13-2 record, 1.69 ERA, and 209 strikeouts in only 122.2 innings. His performance earned him the Dick Howser Trophy, National Pitcher of the Year, and College World Series Most Outstanding Player honors. His combination of velocity, control, and a devastating slider rendered him nearly unhittable—and a no-brainer for the Pirates when it came to making the first overall pick.
Since joining the Pirates, Skenes has done nothing but live up to the hype. His minor league appearances were brief but electrifying, displaying his 100+ mph fastball and elite strikeout ability.
Skenes, now in the big leagues, has quickly demonstrated that he is more than prepared to face the game’s elite. His starts have been dominant, with multiple double-digit strikeout games and a growing reputation as a fierce competitor who thrives in the spotlight.
ESPN MLB insider Jeff Passan added fuel to the excitement surrounding Skenes with the bold statement:
“If Paul Skenes stays healthy, he will be inducted into the Hall of Fame on the first ballot. That is how good he is.
Health is Key
Skenes’ prospective trajectory is similar to that of Derek Jeter, the legendary Yankees shortstop who was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2020.
Passan emphasizes the importance of health. Pitchers with Skenes’ velocity and intensity are frequently at risk of arm injury, but his mechanics and conditioning have already laid a solid foundation. If he continues down this path, staying healthy and honing his craft, he could become the Pirates’ generational ace and one of baseball’s all-time greats.
Skenes is already making his case in an era when fans seek out stars who can capture their imagination. LSU standout, first-round pick, and potential Cooperstown legend.
