Exploring the LSU Journey of Rookie Pitcher Paul Skenes for the Pirates.
One of the most highly anticipated debuts in MLB history is set to unfold this Saturday in Pittsburgh, as the top prospect for the Pirates, former SEC standout Paul Skenes, steps onto a major league mound for the first time.
In anticipation of Skenes’ much-awaited MLB debut, let’s reflect on his impressive career in the SEC.
Skenes, widely regarded as one of the most talented pitchers in SEC history, made the move to LSU from Air Force prior to the 2023 season. Originally recognized as a top two-way player nationally, Skenes shifted his focus solely to pitching at LSU, a decision that proved to be pivotal for the talented right-hander.
During his solitary season in Baton Rouge, Skenes played a crucial role in leading the Tigers to the 2023 national championship. He made 19 starts, boasting an impressive 13-2 record with a stellar 1.69 ERA and an outstanding 209-20 K-BB ratio across 122.2 innings pitched. Skenes also recorded two complete games and amassed double-digit strikeouts in 14 of his starts that season.
With such remarkable statistics, it comes as no surprise that Skenes garnered numerous accolades at the end of the season, including SEC Pitcher of the Year, First Team All-SEC, Consensus All-American, and more. His exceptional performance also earned him the top spot in the 2023 MLB Draft, as he was selected as the No. 1 overall pick by the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Having excelled in minor league baseball much like he did during his time at LSU, the question now remains: will Skenes continue his dominance in the big leagues?
