What observers say
“The proudest I’ve ever been wearing a jersey is the USA jersey,” Paul Skenes remarked after his impressive outing against the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic. The young pitcher, who was selected first overall by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 2023 MLB Draft, showcased his skills on a grand stage, pitching 4.1 innings and striking out two batters.
In front of a crowd of 36,337 fans at LoanDepot Park, Skenes allowed just one run, which came from a home run hit by Junior Caminero. Despite the run, his performance was a testament to his potential, as he maintained a remarkable 1.08 ERA throughout the tournament and recorded a total of nine strikeouts across two contests.
Reflecting on the atmosphere of the game, Skenes expressed a desire to bring the excitement of the World Baseball Classic to Pittsburgh. “It’s definitely something I want to bring to Pittsburgh,” he stated, highlighting his ambition to energize the fanbase of the Pirates.
Mark DeRosa, the manager of Team USA, echoed Skenes’ sentiments, saying, “Baseball won that night. Whether we won or didn’t win. Baseball won.” This statement encapsulates the spirit of the event, where the competition transcended the final score and celebrated the sport itself.
In addition to his performance, Skenes has already made an impression on the baseball community, drawing comparisons to established stars. He even sought advice from veteran pitcher Clayton Kershaw regarding the differences between the World Baseball Classic and the World Series, indicating his eagerness to learn and grow in the sport.
As Skenes continues to develop, he remains a player to watch, especially with his background of having played one season at the U.S. Air Force Academy. His journey in baseball is just beginning, and fans are eager to see how he will impact the Pirates in the upcoming MLB season.
Looking ahead, Team USA is set to face the winner of the matchup between Italy and Venezuela in the championship game, where Skenes hopes to contribute further to his team’s success. His performance in the World Baseball Classic has not only solidified his place on the national team but has also set high expectations for his future in Major League Baseball.
With ticket prices reaching as high as $225 to see Skenes pitch, the excitement surrounding his appearances is palpable. As he continues to impress on the international stage, the baseball world will undoubtedly keep a close eye on this rising star.
