By Ken Rosenthal, Stephen J. Nesbitt and Zack Meisel
The Pittsburgh Pirates find themselves in a tough spot with their young ace, Paul Skenes. With their playoff odds nearly nonexistent, the team could choose to shut down Skenes, preserving his health for future seasons and potentially avoiding service-time manipulation to retain control over him for longer. However, the Pirates have no immediate plans to limit Skenes’ innings, indicating that their focus is still on his development and contributions to the team.
Skenes, a rookie sensation, has taken the league by storm since his debut in May. His performance has put him in contention for the National League Rookie of the Year award, a recognition that could have significant ramifications for his future contract negotiations and free agency eligibility.
The Pirates, a team known for operating on a tight budget, understand the importance of maximizing Skenes’ potential while he is under their control. The decision to manage his workload in the final stretch of the season will be crucial, balancing his development with the team’s competitive aspirations.
While other rookie standouts are emerging in the league, Skenes’ impact on the Pirates and the overall landscape of the game is undeniable. His presence has energized the fan base and raised expectations for the team’s future.
As the season progresses, the Pirates will need to navigate the delicate balance between protecting their young star and allowing him to continue his remarkable ascent. The decisions made in the coming weeks could have lasting implications for both Skenes and the Pirates organization.
