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Major League Baseball fans were psyched when Aaron Judge stepped into the box to face Paul Skenes during the All-Star game. It was a matchup between one of the current faces of the sport and one of the quickest-rising stars.
However, the matchup between the two ended rather quickly and without any drama. Judge grounded out on the first pitch he saw, which was a bit of a letdown for everyone watching.
One person who wanted to see the matchup play out more than just one pitch was Hall of Famer pitcher John Smoltz. He joined Ben Verlander on a recent airing of the Flippin' Bats Podcast to discuss how he felt about the at-bat.
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"It didn't last very long, but I wanted to see [Paul Skenes] against [Aaron] Judge, and it was one pitch, but I am a big fan of watching him do what he does with the mechanics he has" - said Smoltz.
Like everyone else, Smoltz wanted to see the matchup between Skenes and Judge play out more than it did. However, the former Atlanta Braves pitcher cannot help but be blown away by Pittsburgh's new ace.
"He could throw a game, and I can't say this for a lot pitchers, all four-seam fastballs, or a four-seamer and a two-seamer, and just do fine" - said Smoltz.
Smoltz is especially impressed with Skenes' fastball. It is electric, and by far, one of the best across professional baseball.
Paul Skenes has been nothing short of impressive since his debut
While it can be hard for some prospects to live up to expectations, that is not the case with Paul Skenes. He has been excellent since his debut on May 11.
Skenes has started 11 games, compiling a 6-0 record with a 1.90 ERA while striking out 89 batters on 66.1 innings of work. He has been one of the most dominant arms across MLB.
At this point, the National League Rookie of the Year Award is his to lose. However, he could also be a serious Cy Young contender with the way he has been shoving.
Skenes has been a bright spot in Pittsburgh for the Pirates, who are still in contention in the NL Central. It would be hard to deny him either award if he can keep Pittsburgh in the mix.
