Flamethrower Paul Skenes Frustrated with Limited Workload as Pirates’ Top Prospect
Paul Skenes, the Pittsburgh Pirates’ top pitching prospect, is growing increasingly frustrated with his workload. As the MLB’s No. 1 pick in last summer’s draft, Skenes has been making waves with several successful outings. However, his limited workload has also become a point of contention.
On Thursday night, Skenes achieved his fourth consecutive scoreless start for the Triple-A Indianapolis Indians in the 2024 season. Despite this impressive performance, it was also his fourth straight start on a restrictive pitch count. The Pirates have also been cautious with their young flamethrower, closely monitoring his innings and pitch count.
Stat
After the game against the Minnesota Twins’ affiliate, the St. Paul Saints, Skenes expressed his disappointment about how the Pirates have been managing his workload. He was pulled in the fourth inning, leaving him frustrated. Skenes told MLB.com, “I wasn’t happy, but it’s over [manager Miguel Perez’s] head. It’s over my head.”
In that game, Skenes pitched 3 1/3 innings, allowing just one hit, two walks, and an impressive 14 strikeouts. His career-high 65 pitches included 34 pitches thrown at 100-plus mph. The Pirates’ cautious approach stems from Skenes’ extensive workload also during his final college season at LSU, where he also threw over 120 innings.
Currently, Skenes has 19 1/3 innings across nine professional outings, but the team hasn’t indicated when he’ll make his debut in the majors. He’s not alone in facing restrictions. Jones, also drafted in the second round in 2020, has made four starts in the majors, allowing 16 hits and eight earned runs across 23 innings.
Frustration Mounts
Despite the limitations, Skenes remains optimistic. He stated, “It’s gone well. A little bit frustrating sometimes, but I mean, taking it slow is just how it goes. But it’s gone well.” The Pirates are also keen on keeping Skenes in their system, ensuring his long-term development as a key asset for the team
Fellow rookie righty Jared Jones faces similar restrictions. The Pirates are nurturing their young talents, ensuring their long-term impact on the team.
