MVP awards and pitchers rarely mix. The last to win? Clayton Kershaw in 2014. Since then, the MVP has belonged to sluggers and two-way stars. Pitchers could dominate games; however, the voters need offensive firepower.
Enter Paul Skenes. The Pirates’ young talent is not just good—he is historic. The California-born’s velocity and strikeout rate, as well as sheer dominance, are forcing an interaction no one saw coming. Could Skenes break a decade-long trend? Could the Dick Howser Trophy winner become another talent after Kershaw to take home MVP? First, one needs to analyze his dominance. Then, they will analyze whether this season could transform how baseball values its most prestigious award.
Paul Skenes’s path to prominence has been nothing short of spectacular. In the 2024 season, the former Air Force Falcons player posted an impressive 11-3 record with a 1.96 ERA over 23 starts. He amassed 170 strikeouts in 133 innings. Such a stellar activity earned him the NL Rookie of the Year award and a third-place finish in the Cy Young voting. His achievements have solidified his status as a top pitcher as well as sparked interaction related to his scope to claim the MVP title.
Skenes’s dominance on the field is further highlighted by assumptions for the 2025 season. Analysts think he will make 30 starts, with a thought 13-6 record, a 2.18 ERA, and a 0.98 WHIP. Such numbers highlight the young talent’s power to fulfill and exceed the high expectations established for him, placing him as a formidable MVP candidate.
The MVP award has long been dominated by position players, with pitchers rarely claiming the award. This year, talents like Rafael Devers, Jackson Chourio, Michael Harris II, and Wyatt Langford are all in the spotlight. This list highlights the offensive firepower, which basically sways voters. However, Paul Skenes provides a distinctive situation. His sheer dominance on the mound rivals the effect of elite hitters. If he outshines such offensive standouts, could the young talent break the mold? A Skenes MVP win will highlight his individual capability, challenge the old voting situation, and open the door for upcoming aces to enter the discussion.
Paul Skenes and the MVP chase
Paul Skenes is forcing an interaction related to his place among the greats. His capability draws comparisons to legends like Clayton Kershaw. However, could he have carved out a greater legacy? That is where the real debate begins.
Kershaw, a three-time Cy Young winner, established the standard for current pitching dominance. Now, Skenes, with an overpowering velocity and enhanced pitch mix, is drawing sole attention. If he secures a Cy Young Award, he will accomplish what Clayton Kershaw last did for the Dodgers in 2014. However, their paths differ. The Triple Crown winner thrived on deception and pinpoint command. However, Skenes manages hitters with pure power. In the current velocity-driven game, such a distinction could make Skenes more dominant.
For the Pittsburgh Pirates, an MVP-caliber year from the talent would be transformational. The team has lacked a true ace since Gerrit Cole’s departure. In addition, Skenes could redesign Pirates’ pitching identity. If he acts on the hype, the team will have an award-winning pitcher and a frontline individual capable of anchoring a postseason run. His capability to pitch deep in plays, effectively reaching 200 innings, would relieve the bullpen. If Skenes takes the next step, the Pittsburgh Pirates could go from a reestablishment team to a legitimate contender.
Paul Skenes is pushing the barrier of what a pitcher can achieve. If the talent continues this trajectory, could he redefine how MVPs are chosen? The answer lies in the season ahead.
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