Paul Skenes is indeed considered one of the most talented young pitchers in baseball, having earned the National League Rookie of the Year award in 2024. He also garnered significant attention as a Cy Young Award candidate following his dominant rookie season.
However, this 2025 season has presented a bit of a bumpy start. While yesterday’s outing resulted in a loss for his team, it’s worth noting that he still managed to pitch a quality start. A quality start is defined as a game in which a starting pitcher goes at least six innings and allows no more than three earned runs. Recording it, even in a losing effort, suggests that Skenes still demonstrated a level of effectiveness on the mound, limiting the damage despite not getting the win.
It must have been particularly disappointing for Paul Skenes to take a loss on his designated Bobblehead Day. This special occasion, intended to celebrate his achievements, drew significant fan enthusiasm, with many supporters reportedly lining up for three hours before the game, hoping to be among the first 20,000 to receive the commemorative item. The anticipation and excitement surrounding the giveaway likely amplified the disappointment of the subsequent loss for both Skenes and the dedicated fans who came out to support him.
In the first five starts of the 2025 season, Paul Skenes has recorded a 2-2 win-loss record with one no-decision game. He has accumulated a total of 30 strikeouts across 31.One innings pitched. His current Earned Run Average (ERA) stands at a solid 2.87. When compared to other starting pitchers in the National League who have made at least four starts, Skenes’ ERA places him within the top 16. Zooming out to the entire MLB, his ERA is also among the top 30 for starting pitchers meeting the same innings pitched.
As for concerns about Skenes potentially seeking a trade or a new contract due to dissatisfaction, there are currently no credible reports or indications suggesting he is unhappy with the Pittsburgh Pirates. He is still early in his MLB career and under team control for several more years. While contract extensions are always a possibility for promising young players, and trade rumors can circulate, these are often speculative, especially for a talent of Skenes’ caliber in the early stages of his professional journey.
As for concerns about Skenes potentially seeking a trade or a new contract due to dissatisfaction, there are currently no credible reports or indications suggesting he is unhappy with the Pittsburgh Pirates. He is still early in his MLB career and under team control for several more years. While contract extensions are always a possibility for promising young players, and trade rumors can circulate, these are often speculative, especially for a talent of Skenes’ caliber in the early stages of his professional journey.
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