Abbott has been a cornerstone for the Reds since his 2023 debut, consistently delivering strong performances. Over 75 starts, he's put together a 28-23 record with a 3.42 ERA.
Last season was a standout for Abbott, setting personal records in ERA, WHIP, walk rate, and fWAR. His efforts earned him a spot in his first All-Star Game and an eighth-place finish in the NL Cy Young voting.
With Greene sidelined at the start of the season, Abbott steps up as Cincinnati's ace, ready to lead the rotation until his teammate's return.
Now, let’s talk about the standout pitcher in the NL Central, and arguably, in all of baseball: Paul Skenes of the Pittsburgh Pirates. His 2025 stats speak volumes-32 starts, 187.2 innings pitched, a dazzling 1.97 ERA, and a 0.95 WHIP. With a 2.36 FIP, 10.36 K/9, and 2.01 BB/9, Skenes is setting the standard.
Bursting onto the scene in 2024, Skenes made the All-Star team, snagged the NL Rookie of the Year award, and finished third in the NL Cy Young voting-all after being drafted first overall in 2023. Last year, he took it up a notch, unanimously winning the NL Cy Young and placing sixth for NL MVP.
Skenes didn’t just shine in the MLB; he was a force for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic this spring. Dominating with just one run allowed over 8.1 innings, he struck out nine and secured wins against Mexico and the formidable Dominican Republic. Skenes is living up to and exceeding expectations, potentially ushering in a new era for the Pirates and MLB.