The Pittsburgh Pirates' rookie sensation Paul Skenes has been a bright spot in an otherwise lackluster season for the team. The Pirates, currently seven games below .500 and entrenched at the bottom of the National League Central standings, have no plans to shut down their 22-year-old right-hander despite their struggles. This approach highlights their belief in Skenes’ potential both now and in the future.
No Set Innings Limit for Skenes
Paul Skenes has made a significant impact since his arrival in Pittsburgh in early May, starting 16 games and showcasing his endurance by averaging over six innings per outing. His pitch count typically hovers around the 98-pitch mark, with a season-high of 107 pitches thrown against the New York Mets on July 5. Despite having pitched 98 innings at the big-league level this season, combined with his collegiate workload, his total rises to 125 1/3 innings.
The Pirates have been clear that there is no set innings limit for Skenes in 2024. This season, the club might consider shortening some of his starts as a way to manage his workload better. However, they are intent on allowing him to finish out what has widely been acknowledged as a Rookie of the Year caliber season. "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," reported Ken Rosenthal, Stephen J. Nesbitt, and Zack Meisel.
Impressive Rookie Statistics
Skenes' numbers are nothing short of impressive. He boasts a 2.30 ERA and a 2.91 FIP, having racked up 121 strikeouts. His performance has not only solidified his spot in the Pirates' rotation but also earned him the honor of starting the All-Star Game for the National League. Such achievements are a testament to his skill and potential as a cornerstone for the Pirates' future success.
Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 235 pounds, Skenes is an imposing figure on the mound, using his size and strength to his advantage. His background as a key player for the national-champion LSU Tigers, where he threw 129 1/3 innings as the team's ace, adds to his pedigree and underscores the high expectations surrounding him.
The Pirates’ Strategy
As the Pirates sit 7 1/2 games out of the third and final NL wild-card spot, the focus on developing Skenes appears to be a long-term strategy. He is a substantial draw for fans, even as the team struggles through a challenging season. According to Rosenthal, Nesbitt, and Meisel, "The present and future are exceptionally bright for Skenes, and he's no doubt a box-office draw even for the flagging Pirates."
The decision to manage his workload carefully while keeping him active reflects the Pirates' broader plan to build around their young talent. With his strong performances and the experience he continues to gain, Skenes is poised to be an integral player for the Pirates in the years to come.
While the Pirates' current season may not be one for the record books, the emergence of Paul Skenes offers a beacon of hope. The team’s commitment to nurturing his talent, without succumbing to the pressure of an innings limit, bodes well for their future prospects. As Skenes continues to develop and shine, the Pirates and their fans can look forward to what he will bring to the mound in the seasons ahead.