Heralded pitcher Paul Skenes, drafted first overall by the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2022, has achieved a major milestone by becoming the 84th Major League Baseball player from Louisiana State University.
Paul Skenes has carved his name into LSU Baseball's storied history by becoming the 84th alumnus to ascend to the hallowed halls of Major League Baseball. The momentous occasion was marked on June 30, 2023, when Skenes was promoted to the active roster of the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Skenes, a 6-foot-6, 230-pound right-hander, was the Pirates' coveted first overall selection in the 2022 MLB Draft. In his inaugural season with the organization, Skenes has been a force on the minor league circuit, posting an impressive 2.75 ERA and striking out 11 batters per nine innings.
The young phenom's journey to the majors has been a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering determination. Born in Mandeville, Louisiana, Skenes developed his love for baseball at an early age and honed his skills at the prestigious St. Paul's School in Covington, Louisiana.
Upon joining LSU in 2020, Skenes quickly emerged as a dominant pitcher for the Tigers. In his sophomore season, he led the Southeastern Conference with a 3.78 ERA and 130 strikeouts, earning him first-team All-SEC honors.
Skenes' standout performance at LSU attracted the attention of MLB scouts, culminating in his historic selection as the first overall pick by the Pirates. The right-hander's dominant repertoire of fastballs and breaking pitches catapulted his stock to the top of the draft board.
Now, Skenes stands on the cusp of his major league debut, poised to make a significant impact on the Pirates organization. His promotion to the active roster is a reflection of his exceptional abilities and the unwavering support he has received from the LSU Baseball program.
Skenes joins an illustrious lineage of LSU players who have graced the Major Leagues, including such luminaries as Ben McDonald, Todd Walker, Will Clark, Alex Bregman, and Mikie Mahtook. The program's rich history of producing elite talent is a testament to the dedication of its coaching staff and the exceptional athletes who have worn the LSU uniform.
Skenes' promotion is a source of immense pride for LSU Baseball and the entire Louisiana community. It is a testament to the program's ability to develop and prepare its players for the highest level of competition.
As Skenes takes the mound in the Major Leagues, he carries with him the legacy of the storied LSU Baseball program and the hopes of countless Tigers fans. His journey is an inspiration to young athletes everywhere, demonstrating that hard work and unwavering belief can lead to extraordinary achievements.
