The Pittsburgh Pirates' top prospect, Paul Skenes, will make his major league debut on May 11 against the Chicago Cubs, bringing excitement to fans and the baseball community alike.
The highly anticipated debut of Paul Skenes, the Pittsburgh Pirates' top prospect, is on the horizon. The Pirates have officially announced that Skenes will join the team on May 11 at PNC Park to face the Chicago Cubs.
Skenes, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 MLB Draft from LSU, has been on the radar of Pirates fans since his stellar college career. Despite a strong spring training performance, the Pirates opted to have him begin the season in Triple-A Indianapolis to gain further experience.
However, Skenes' impressive performances in the minors have accelerated his call-up to the majors. Over his first seven Triple-A starts, he has posted an 0.99 ERA, surrendering only 17 hits in 27⅓ innings. He has also struck out 45 batters while walking eight.
Pirates fans have been eagerly awaiting Skenes' debut, and his girlfriend, social media sensation and LSU gymnast Olivia Dunne, has been a vocal advocate for his promotion. Dunne hinted at the possibility via a social media post last weekend, further fueling the anticipation.
Skenes made a start for Triple-A Indianapolis on Monday against the Buffalo Bisons, but despite giving up his first home run of the season, he struck out four batters and was pulled after 66 pitches. Pirates GM Ben Cherington expressed confidence in Skenes' abilities, stating that he has been "checking just about every box" since the season began.
Not only is Skenes the Pirates' top prospect, but MLB.com ranks him as the No. 3 prospect in all of baseball. His standout performance in LSU's College World Series run in 2023, where he finished with a 13-2 record, solidified his status as a potential star.
The Pirates gave Skenes a record $9.2 million signing bonus when he inked his first contract, making him one of the most highly touted prospects in recent memory. His debut will be closely watched by both Pirates fans and the baseball community, eager to witness his transition to the highest level of the sport.
May 11 at PNC Park will be a pivotal day for Skenes and the Pirates. The young right-hander will have the opportunity to showcase his exceptional talent on the grandest stage, while the Pirates hope that he can provide a boost to their rotation and help them contend for a playoff berth.
