Saturday may not matter when it comes to the Yankees' postseason.
But this could mean something – it would be our first look at Pirates genius Paul Skeens.
“He's one of the big stories this season,” manager Aaron Boone said Friday before both teams began a three-game series to close out the regular season in the Bronx. “There's no question he started the All-Star Game, put together a great season and had a huge impact.”
The 22-year-old Skeens is one of the most talented pitchers in the league, along with Padres outfielder Jackson Merrill, and is the favorite to win the National League Rookie of the Year award.
The 6-foot-6-inch fireball right-hander has a celebrity girlfriend (LSU gymnast and social media superstar Libby Dunn) and an unusually overpowering arsenal.
Skeens, who was highly touted before making his major league debut on May 11, exceeded even the highest expectations.
He became the fifth rookie to start in the All-Star Game in July, and pitched 131 innings with a 1.99 ERA, 0.96 WHIP, and 167 strikeouts (a Pirates rookie record), finishing the season with an 11-3 season record. He will be the last starter.
This will be his New York debut.
Skeens, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 draft, played against the Mets in Pittsburgh on July 5, allowing four hits in seven innings and allowing just two earned runs in the win.
Skeens became the first pitcher in the modern era to record an ERA under 2.20 with 150 strikeouts in his first 21 games.
“He's a beast and what he's doing now at this age is insane. I just want to see what he can do in a full season,” said Pirates infielder Isaiah, who spent two seasons with the Yankees. Kiner Falefa said. “I'm looking forward to playing with him next year and watching him continue to grow. He opened a window for us himself, which is pretty cool.
“His work ethic [stands out]. He doesn't act like he's new. He is not acting in a rightful manner. He's humble, always wants to get better, and acts like he's just a normal guy holding a room. For a young player of his age, he won a national title and was selected first overall, and this is his first year on the job. [the major leagues] — so you'd think he'd walk around with a big head. He's the opposite.
“He goes about his job like a true veteran. It's refreshing to watch.”
