Paul Skenes: From Draft to MLB All-Star in Record Time
In late July 2023, Paul Skenes, freshly drafted by the Pirates, admitted he wasn’t yet at his best. During a crucial intake meeting in Bradenton, Florida, Skenes, along with John Baker and Josh Hopper, laid out a developmental path. Less than a year later, the towering hurler is set to start the National League All-Star Game. His remarkable 1.90 ERA over 11 starts has stunned Major League Baseball, living up to his No. 1 overall pick expectations.
Skenes’ rapid rise involved refining his already impressive skill set. Known for his dominant fastball-slider combo in college, he sought to add a reliable third pitch. This led to the creation of the “splinker,” a unique pitch blending the velocity of a sinker with the depth of a splitter. Working with renowned pitching coach Wes Johnson during the offseason, Skenes developed this pitch, which Pirates officials did not see in person until late winter. Its effectiveness has been transformative, making his meteoric ascent possible.
Despite his swift climb, Skenes remains committed to continuous improvement. His willingness to self-assess and adapt, combined with his athletic prowess, has marked him as a generational talent. His former LSU teammates, now standout prospects themselves, aren’t surprised by his success. Skenes’ addition of the splinker has elevated his game, showcasing his determination and skill, proving that he’s not just good but potentially one of the best.
