Paul Skenes breaks records, but wants more

Paul Skenes finished his second year in the big leagues with a 1.97 earned run average. For most pitchers, that would be cause for celebration. For him, it’s a wake-up call. “I’m worse than last year,” he said with a smirk after throwing six scoreless innings against the Reds. In 2024, he had ended with a 1.96. The difference is minimal, but for Skenes, it’s enough to demand more from himself.

At 23, the right-hander for the Pittsburgh Pirates became the first pitcher his age to close a season with an ERA under 2.00 since Dwight Gooden did it in 1985. But beyond the stat line, what stands out is his mindset. According to the report published by Marca, Paul Skenes isn’t chasing numbers—he’s chasing execution. “I don’t go into a season with statistical goals. I just want to do my job well,” he said.

Records and legacy

And he did just that. Paul Skenes ended the year with 216 strikeouts over 187.2 innings, a 0.95 WHIP, and opponents hitting just .199 against him. He broke the Pirates’ single-season strikeout record for a right-handed pitcher, surpassing Mitch Keller’s 210 from 2023. His arsenal—a lethal mix of high-velocity fastball, wicked changeup, and deep sinker—is often described as one of the most complete in the league.

 

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Paul Skenes is the frontrunner for the National League Cy Young Award. If he wins, he’ll join Vernon Law (1960) and Doug Drabek (1990) as the only Pirates pitchers to ever claim the honor. And while Pittsburgh didn’t make the playoffs, the franchise’s future looks secure. Teammates already call him the best pitcher on the planet. His technical growth, competitive edge, and consistency have made him a central figure in MLB.

Chasing perfection

But the most striking thing about Paul Skenes isn’t his dominance—it’s his refusal to settle. In a league where many are content to shine for a season, he wants to be better every time out. He’s not chasing applause; he’s chasing perfection. And if a 1.97 ERA feels like a letdown to him, the rest of the league should pay attention. Because when a talent like this pushes himself harder than anyone else, what’s coming isn’t just another good year. It’s the start of an era.