Paul Skenes is back with the Pittsburgh Pirates at spring training, fresh off an unforgettable stint at the World Baseball Classic. While the experience was undeniably thrilling, Skenes didn't shy away from expressing his disappointment over Team USA's shortfall.
Reflecting on his time at the WBC, Skenes described it as "pretty damn cool," yet he was candid about the outcome being "not good enough," a sentiment echoed by many after the team's loss to Venezuela.
Skenes was a standout performer for Team USA, pitching 8 1/3 innings over two starts, both victories, and allowing just one earned run. His ability to adapt under pressure was on full display during the critical semifinal against the Dominican Republic. After conceding a solo home run to Junior Caminero, Skenes made smart adjustments, effectively neutralizing one of the most formidable lineups in the tournament.
His WBC journey is set to bolster his role with the Pirates. After the semifinal win, Skenes sought insights from Clayton Kershaw, discussing the nuances between the World Series and the intense WBC atmosphere. Skenes is eager to channel that energy and wisdom into the upcoming MLB season with Pittsburgh.
“It’s definitely something I want to bring to Pittsburgh,” Skenes shared, indicating the impact his WBC experience could have on the Pirates' future.
Skenes' performance didn't just elevate his profile; it also shone a spotlight on the Pirates. With baseball legends like Derek Jeter and David Ortiz hailing him as the best pitcher in the world, Skenes has injected a fresh wave of excitement into the team as they head into 2026.
His stellar start in the majors, capped by a National League Cy Young Award, has already established him as a dominant force. Now, with the momentum from the WBC, Skenes is poised to lead a rising Pirates organization, mentoring promising talents like Bubba Chandler and Konnor Griffin.
Skenes thrives in high-pressure situations, making him an ideal leader for the Pirates as they aim for a new era of success. This month, he proved once again that he's ready for the big moments.