Major League Baseball (MLB) is taking calculated steps towards increasing its visibility and relevance, particularly through initiatives centered around the MLB Draft. One prominent move has been shifting the first round of the MLB Draft to primetime, integrating it with the All-Star Game festivities. The 2023 MLB Draft highlighted this change effectively, with LSU's Paul Skenes being picked first overall.
Since being drafted, Paul Skenes has rapidly become a sensation across the league, delivering performances that have left both fans and analysts in awe. In a historic feat, Skenes started the 2024 All-Star Game for the National League, becoming the first number one overall draft pick to achieve this honor in the season immediately following their draft. This marked a significant milestone, not seen since Hideo Nomo, who was the last rookie to start an All-Star Game back in 1995.
A Phenomenal Start
Skenes' statistics underscore his extraordinary early impact. With 11 MLB starts under his belt, he boasts a 6-0 record and a remarkable 1.90 ERA. His most recent outing was nothing short of spectacular, as he worked seven no-hit innings and struck out 11 batters. This elevated level of performance is compounded by his diverse pitching repertoire, which includes fastballs, sinkers, sliders, and curves. His fastball is particularly formidable, reaching speeds up to 100 mph. In comparison, his sinker ranges between 91 to 96 mph, providing a unique challenge for hitters.
Facing the Competition
Throughout his short stint, Skenes has faced and impressed some of the league's top-tier talent. Reflecting on a recent game, Skenes remarked, "It was cool to face off against them back-to-back." His dynamism on the mound is acknowledged by opponents, including star hitters like Aaron Judge, Juan Soto, and Christian Yelich.
"They were tough. Soto was a tough at-bat, and Judge, I kind of went after him and got him to roll over one," Skenes shared about his experience. Aaron Judge, a giant in the baseball world, reciprocated the admiration, stating, "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."
Veteran Respect
Veteran players like Christian Yelich have been particularly impressed by Skenes' ability to pitch rather than just throw heat, "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." Yelich further elaborated on Skenes' mastery over his pitches, saying, "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."
High Hopes for the Future
Juan Soto also recognized Skenes' adeptness, acknowledging the challenges he faced: "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." Such comments reflect a growing respect and awareness of Skenes' capabilities among the league's best hitters.
Meanwhile, the league sees rising stars in other areas too. Steven Kwan is leading the league with a .352 average, an extraordinary feat in itself. Gunnar Henderson is making headlines with his batting line of .286/.373/.584, including a notable 28 home runs. Aaron Judge, another emblematic figure, was recently placed in the cleanup spot by Rangers manager Bruce Bochy, further demonstrating the strategic adaptability within MLB's upper echelon.
As Major League Baseball continues to evolve, the infusion of fresh talent like Paul Skenes, coupled with strategic initiatives, is setting a new pace for the sport. The future undoubtedly looks bright, with fans eagerly anticipating the next set of remarkable performances and milestones.