PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – The numbers left any doubt as Paul Skenes wins the National League Cy Young Award. The votes didn't leave any doubt either, Skenes got all 30 first-place votes.
The 23-year-old is the first Pirates pitcher since Doug Drabek in 1990 to be so honored. He is only the third overall, joining Vern Law (1960).
Skenes was dominant, leading baseball with a 1.97 ERA and the National League with a 0.95 WHIP. He was second in the NL with 216 strikeouts (a franchise record for right-handers) and fourth in batting average against (.199). His record was 10-10, but the Pirates scored 11 total runs for him in the 10 losses.
The right-hander was consistent all season-April 2.23 ERA, May 1.91, June 2.05, July 0.67 (gave up 2 runs in 27 innings), August 2.91, September 1.31. In 20 of his 33 starts Skenes gave up a run or less. He had four games where he walked more than two and had 17 starts where he struck out at least seven.
In two seasons in MLB, the 2023 first-overall pick is 21-13, 1.96 ERA, 386 strikeouts.
“The thing that stands out to me about Paul is the way he leads himself first,” said Pirates manager Don Kelly. “The expectations he has for himself and how he works and goes about it every single day. He is totally deserving of all the awards.”
“Paul is incredibly deserving of the Cy Young Award and all that it represents. His preparation, competitiveness and poise reflect the toughness, heart and pride that define Pittsburgh,” said Pirates Chairman Bob Nutting in a statement released by the team. “He’s a leader who holds himself to the highest standard and makes everyone around him better.
“Just as meaningful as his performance on the field is his commitment to giving back — especially his support for those who have served, and continue to serve, in our armed forces. We are incredibly proud of Paul and grateful to have someone of his character representing our organization and our city.”