Ever since he burst onto the scene in Major League Baseball, New York Yankees ace Gerrit Cole has been a vocal supporter of Pittsburgh Pirates standout Paul Skenes. It’s a rare sight to see a former No. 1 overall pick praise another young talent, but Cole sees immense potential in Skenes that could eventually eclipse his own accomplishments.
In a recent discussion, Cole elaborated on why he believes Skenes has all the tools necessary for success. “Skenes has the foundation to match that — and exceed it,” he noted. What’s striking is Cole’s acknowledgment of Skenes’ more advanced understanding of the game at such an early stage in his career. “He’s got more horsepower than me,” he stated, emphasizing the younger player’s keen interest in optimizing his performance through questions about diet, sleep, and mechanics. It’s refreshing to see a player so dedicated to honing his craft.
Cole pointed out that Skenes has surrounded himself with a team that prioritizes not just immediate performance, but long-term success. “It’s really tough to find the right people,” he added, highlighting the importance of advocates who can help navigate the challenges of professional baseball.
Skenes has already made waves in the league, earning the National League Rookie of the Year award and even placing third in Cy Young voting—a remarkable feat for any first-year player. These accolades serve as testament to both his talent and commitment to the game.
One of Skenes’ greatest strengths is his understanding of the importance of building a solid support system. It’s not just about financial advisors; it’s about having trainers who meticulously track performance metrics, optimizing his pitch speed and muscle engagement. Today’s resources are leaps and bounds ahead of what many former stars had, and Skenes is capitalizing on every available tool to enhance his game.
The Pirates, despite recent struggles, appear to have a clearer vision for how to develop a No. 1 overall pick, and Skenes is poised to be a significant part of that plan. With an impressive 11-3 record last season alongside 170 strikeouts and only 30 walks, he’s already proving that he can be a game-changer for the franchise.
As Cole continues to champion Skenes at every turn, it’s evident that we’re only scratching the surface of what this young pitcher can achieve. In just a few seasons, Skenes could very well become a marquee name in baseball, if he hasn’t already. The future looks bright not just for him, but for the Pirates as they look to transition into a new era with Skenes leading the way.
