Paul Skenes' second start for the Chicago White Sox was even more impressive than his debut, as he retired 21 batters in a row and struck out seven.
Paul Skenes, the Chicago White Sox's top pitching prospect, continued his impressive start to his Major League career with a dominant outing against the Minnesota Twins on Saturday. In his second start, Skenes struck out seven batters over five innings while allowing only one walk.
Skenes' performance was all the more remarkable considering that he was facing a Twins lineup that included several All-Stars, including Byron Buxton, Jorge Polanco, and Luis Arraez. However, Skenes was unfazed, attacking the batters with a fastball that sat in the mid-90s and a sharp slider.
"I just felt really good today," Skenes said after the game. "My command was there, and I was able to execute my pitches."
White Sox manager Tony La Russa was also impressed with Skenes' performance.
"He's got a lot of talent," La Russa said. "He's got a bright future."
Skenes' outing was even more impressive considering that he was making his second start in just five days. The White Sox had originally planned to give him an extra day of rest, but Skenes lobbied to start on Saturday.
"I just wanted to go out there and compete," Skenes said. "I feel like I'm ready to start every five days."
Skenes' performance has given the White Sox a much-needed boost. The team has struggled this season, but Skenes' emergence has provided a bright spot.
"He's going to be a big part of our future," La Russa said. "We're really excited about what he can do."
Skenes' next start is scheduled for Friday against the Cleveland Guardians. He will face a tough challenge in Guardians ace Shane Bieber, but Skenes is confident that he can continue his impressive start.
"I'm just going to go out there and do my thing," Skenes said. "I'm not afraid of anyone."
* Skenes' outing was the longest of his Major League career. He had previously thrown 4 2/3 innings in his debut against the Kansas City Royals.
* Skenes' seven strikeouts were also a career high. He had previously struck out six batters in his debut.
* Skenes' performance lowered his ERA to 1.80. He has allowed only two runs in 10 innings pitched this season.
* Skenes is now considered one of the top pitching prospects in the Major Leagues. He is ranked as the No. 2 prospect by MLB Pipeline and the No. 4 prospect by Baseball America.
* Skenes is expected to be a key part of the White Sox's rotation for years to come. He is a hard-throwing right-hander with a plus fastball and a sharp slider.
* Skenes' emergence has given the White Sox a much-needed boost. The team has struggled this season, but Skenes' impressive start has provided a bright spot.
* Skenes is a confident and talented pitcher. He is not afraid to challenge himself, and he is determined to succeed.
* Skenes' next start is scheduled for Friday against the Cleveland Guardians. He will face a tough challenge in Guardians ace Shane Bieber, but Skenes is confident that he can continue his impressive start.
* Skenes has the potential to be a star pitcher in the Major Leagues. He has all the tools to succeed, and he is only 22 years old.
* White Sox fans should be excited about Skenes' future. He is the future of the team's rotation, and he has the potential to be one of the best pitchers in the league.
