The Pittsburgh Pirates have made a significant move by signing right-handed pitcher Paul Skenes, the No. 1 pick in the 2023 MLB Draft, to a record-setting $9.2 million bonus. This deal surpasses the previous high bonus of $8.1463 million given to Detroit Tigers first baseman Spencer Torkelson in 2020.
Skenes played a crucial role in leading LSU to the national championship this season. He showcased his dominance on the mound by striking out just over 50 percent of the batters he faced. In fact, Skenes recorded an impressive total of 164 strikeouts during the regular season, which was 40 more than any other pitcher in Division I.
Scouting reports on Skenes highlight his exceptional talent and potential. He is regarded as the hardest-throwing amateur starter ever seen, surpassing notable pitchers like Hunter Greene and Gerrit Cole. During a game in April, Skenes consistently hit speeds of 100 or 101 mph, with his fastball never dropping below 96 mph.
Skenes’ journey to the Pittsburgh Pirates began at the Air Force Academy, where he showcased his skills by throwing at speeds of 92 to 95 mph as a sophomore. He also possessed a formidable slider with a rating of 55. Despite his size, Skenes has a compact delivery and above-average control. He has the potential to improve his control even further.
One notable aspect of Skenes’ pitching style is his ability to hide the ball behind his body, making it challenging for hitters to anticipate his pitches. This deceptive technique allows his fastball and slider to remain effective against even the most skilled hitters. However, some batters have been able to anticipate his fastball due to his limited use of a changeup pitch.
Overall, Skenes’ talent and potential are evident, with few obstacles standing in his way. The only concern is the inherent injury risk associated with hard-throwing pitchers. However, if he continues to develop his third pitch and maintains his health, Skenes has the potential to become a formidable force on the mound.
For more information on Paul Skenes and his journey to the Pittsburgh Pirates, be sure to check out the required reading material. The signing of Skenes represents a significant investment by the Pirates and highlights their commitment to building a strong pitching staff. With Skenes’ exceptional talent and potential, Pirates fans have reason to be excited about the future of their team.
(Photo: Steven Branscombe / USA Today)