Paul Skenes and his sensational rookie season are about to get some more attention after the BBWAA announced the finalists for all the major player awards.
The Pittsburgh Pirates were unable to make it to the playoffs this season. However, Skenes’ performance was able to leave the team and its fans excited for what’s to come in the future. One year after being drafted first overall by the Pirates in the 2023 MLB Draft, Skenes made his debut in May and dominated start after start.
The 22-year-old made 23 starts, going 11-3 with a 1.96 ERA, 170 strikeouts, and a 0.94 WHIP. A top-tier stat line, that earned him the start for the National League in the 2024 MLB All-Star Game. But that’s not all, as his impressive performance has now landed him in as a finalist for both the NL Rookie of the Year, which he’s favorited to win, as well as the NL Cy Young.
Skenes is in impressive company, joined by fellow rookies Jackson Merrill of the San Diego Padres and Jackson Chourio of the Milwaukee Brewers. In the Cy Young conversation, he’s joined by Atlanta Braves hurler Chris Sale and Philadelphia Phillies starter Zack Wheeler.
It remains to be seen whether or not Skenes will walk away with either award, but considering his rookie status, it’s all the more impressive that he’s not only in the Rookie of the Year talk but also for the Cy Young.
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