Major League Baseball (MLB) has been making calculated moves to elevate its profile, strategizing to bring more attention to the Annual MLB Draft. This year, shifting the first round of the Draft to primetime and integrating it with the All-Star Game festivities has paid dividends, with some remarkable performances already making headlines.
Paul Skenes: A Rising Star
In the 2023 MLB Draft, LSU's Paul Skenes was selected as the first overall pick, a decision that has garnered significant attention. Skenes has quickly made his mark in the league with an extraordinary start to his professional career. Remarkably, in 2024, he not only made the All-Star team but also started the All-Star Game for the National League.
This achievement makes Skenes the first number one overall draft pick to start the All-Star Game in the season following their draft. Moreover, he is the first rookie to start the All-Star Game since Hideo Nomo in 1995—an illustrious company that speaks volumes about his talent and composure under pressure.
Outstanding Rookie Season
Skenes' journey through his rookie season has been nothing short of spectacular. With 11 MLB starts to his name, he has compiled an impressive 6-0 record and a stellar 1.90 ERA. This level of performance is rarely seen in newcomers, making him a standout figure in the current baseball season.
In his latest outing, Skenes worked seven no-hit innings and struck out 11 batters, using a mix of fastballs, sinkers, sliders, and curves. His sinker, ranging between 91 to 96 mph, and his fastball, reaching up to 100 mph, were particularly formidable. Christian Yelich, an outfielder for the Milwaukee Brewers, noted, "Not downplaying 100, but you see 100 a lot. There's a lot of guys who throw 100, but he's not up there just ripping 100. He's pitching."
Skenes vs. The Best
It’s worth noting some of the marquee matchups Skenes has faced thus far. The pitcher himself mentioned the excitement of facing high-caliber opponents: "It was cool to face off against them back-to-back." Juan Soto echoed this sentiment, recognizing Skenes' skill, "I think it was a split, it’s a pretty good pitch. I watched it twice so I was definitely trying to get used to it. I was trying to take him deep, no lie."
Aaron Judge, a daunting presence in the batter's box, had a notable duel with Skenes. Judge said, "I got the chance to battle and watch [Soto] battle against one of the young studs in the NL right now, it was pretty cool." Skenes managed to get the better of Judge during their matchup, an indicator of his growing prowess.
Leaders and Standouts
While the spotlight has shone brightly on Skenes, other players have also been making headlines. Steven Kwan leads the league with a .352 average, showcasing remarkable consistency at the plate. Meanwhile, Gunnar Henderson has impressed with a batting line of .286/.373/.584 and 28 home runs, underscoring his power-hitting capabilities.
Aaron Judge, traditionally known for his power, found himself in an unusual position when Rangers manager Bruce Bochy placed him in the cleanup spot. This strategic move indicates the constant adjustments teams make as they navigate the complexities of the MLB season.
Advanced Techniques
Skenes' pitching techniques have drawn considerable attention from analysts and players alike. Christian Yelich summarized the rookie's approach succinctly, "And when you have 100 in the tank, too, that's when it’s a little different. He was changing speeds with us, [the sinker] was anywhere from 91 to 95-96 and his fastball is 100. He knows how to use his arsenal, it kind of seemed like he knew what he was doing, setting us up. He was pretty advanced."
The meticulous control and strategic use of his pitches have set Skenes apart from other rookies. His sinkers, fastballs, and breaking balls not only overpower hitters but are also executed with the finesse of a seasoned veteran. As Skenes continues to refine his craft, the MLB community will undoubtedly watch with great interest to see how this young star evolves.
In a league that continually highlights emerging talent, Paul Skenes' rise serves as a testament to the exciting future of Major League Baseball. With his blend of raw power, strategic acumen, and unyielding poise, Skenes is not just a player to watch—he is a potential cornerstone of the sport’s next generation.