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Pittsburgh Pirates flamethrower Paul Skenes has done nothing but turn heads this season. From what he did in the minor leagues to what he is doing in his first professional season, he has been more than impressive.
The game does not seem to be moving too fast for the righty, and he has easily turned into Pittsburgh's ace. He has made 13 starts, compiling a 6-1 record with a 1.90 ERA and 103 strikeouts in 80.2 innings of work.
While a rookie, he has put himself in Cy Young contention. MLB insider Jon Heyman recently discussed Skenes' chances with the crew on MLB Now.
"He's clearly been the best pitcher in the league, and I see no reason that won't continue. If anything, he is getting better and pitching better. He's striking out per nine more than anybody other than Crochet," - said Heyman.
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While he has been impressive, Heyman believes Skenes will only get better as the season goes on. That is hard to imagine given how stellar he looks already.
"He gives up very few hits, very few walks. He is the best guy, he is the best story, and to me, if I voted now, I'd vote him for Cy Young and I know he's getting better, so I think he is going to win" - said Heyman.
Skenes is Heyman's pick to win the NL Cy Young Award. It will be hard to deny him the award if he continues to shut down teams like he has been.
Paul Skenes is starting to run away with the NL Rookie of the Year Award
Pittsburgh Pirates rookie sensation Paul Skenes has been the story of the year. He is must-see TV every time he takes the ball for a start and has given life to Pittsburgh's fanbase.
In MLB.com's latest Rookie of the Year poll, Skenes is starting to run away with it. He has 33 first-place votes, while Jackson Merrill sits in second with just three first-place votes.
Chicago Cubs pitcher Shota Imanaga was the favorite to win the award in May and June but is starting to fall off a bit.
Unless something drastic happens, it will be hard to deny Skenes the Rookie of the Year award. He has been, without a doubt, one of the biggest stories across the league this season.
