Why the Pirates Should Still Get Some Credit for Developing Paul Skenes

The Pittsburgh Pirates have long been known for their development of young talent, and in 2024, they can proudly point to Paul Skenes as one of their major success stories. Despite his incredible talent and immediate success in the MLB, the Pirates deserve significant credit for refining Skenes’ game and preparing him for stardom. After a legendary college career, Skenes entered the MLB as one of the most highly anticipated prospects, but it was the Pirates’ player development system that helped him become the dominant pitcher he is today.

Skenes’ Rise to Stardom

In 2023, Paul Skenes was selected No. 1 overall by the Pirates after an extraordinary season at LSU, where he posted a 1.69 ERA with 209 strikeouts in 122.1 innings. Known for his triple-digit fastball and devastating slider, Skenes was seen as a can’t-miss prospect. However, his game needed development, particularly in expanding his pitch mix to succeed as a starting pitcher in the MLB. It’s here that the Pirates’ coaching staff stepped in and made all the difference.

Development of a New Pitch: The Splinker

In his first MLB season, Paul Skenes quickly established himself as one of the league’s top pitchers. However, it wasn’t just his fastball or slider that made him so effective—it was a new pitch that was largely developed under the guidance of the Pirates’ staff. Enter the splinker: a sinker-splitter hybrid that baffled hitters throughout the league.

This pitch, which was so unique it defied classification, became Skenes’ most dominant offering. Opponents struggled to even make contact, with a mere .184 batting average against the pitch. Skenes’ splinker also generated a staggering 30% whiff rate, while ranking as the best pitch among all starting pitchers in 2024 in terms of Run Value. The Pirates helped Skenes refine this pitch, turning him from an elite prospect into a bona fide ace.

The Pirates’ Development System Shines

While Skenes’ natural talent was evident, the Pirates‘ influence cannot be understated. The team took a pitcher who was already exceptional and helped him elevate his game, particularly by improving his pitch repertoire. The Pirates’ staff didn’t just take Skenes as he was but tailored his development to the major league level.

The results speak for themselves: in 2024, Skenes was not only a rookie standout but also a key part of the Pirates’ pitching success. His ability to adjust and master new pitches shows the work that went into developing him, a process that is often overlooked when discussing players with as much inherent talent as Skenes.

Looking Ahead for the Pirates and Skenes

As Paul Skenes looks to build on his impressive rookie campaign, the Pirates will continue to reap the benefits of their investment in his development. The team has made tremendous strides in recent years, with several other young pitchers like Jared Jones, Bubba Chandler, and Thomas Harrington poised to contribute to the future success of the team. Still, Skenes’ story is a reminder that the Pirates’ development system is crucial to their rising success.

Skenes has the potential to become one of the league’s most feared pitchers for years to come, and while his talent made him a top draft pick, the Pirates’ coaching staff should be commended for shaping him into the pitcher he is today. In the case of Paul Skenes, it wasn’t just the natural ability that set him apart—it was the Pirates‘ commitment to developing that talent into something truly special.