Pittsburgh Pirates Rookie Paul Skenes Set to Make History at MLB All-Star Game

Pittsburgh Pirates rookie pitcher Paul Skenes, 22, is poised to become the first rookie this century to start in the MLB All-Star Game. However, Skenes revealed that his initial aspiration was not to play professional baseball but to become an F-16 pilot in the Air Force. He attended the Air Force Academy for his freshman and sophomore years, where he balanced his love for baseball with his military ambitions. “Playing professional baseball was a dream of mine, but it wasn’t the primary dream,” Skenes stated. After his sophomore year, Skenes faced a pivotal decision: continue his military path or pursue baseball. He was informed that leaving the Academy before his junior year would exempt him from his service obligation. His coach, Mike Kazlausky, noted the challenges posed by the Department of Defense in allowing Skenes to transition to a professional athlete. Ultimately, Skenes chose to transfer to Louisiana State University, where he achieved significant success, including winning the NCAA championship. Skenes’ journey has culminated in his selection as the first overall pick in the 2023 draft and his historic All-Star Game start, a feat not accomplished by a rookie pitcher since Hideo Nomo in 1995. Reflecting on his time in basic training, Skenes acknowledged its impact on his character, stating, “Those 37 days, I never want to do that again, but it’s 100% shaped who I am today.” His family background includes military service, with two uncles in the Navy and one in the Coast Guard.