Paul Skenes starts his second consecutive All-Star Game for the NL

On July 11, 2023, at Truist Park in Atlanta, Paul Skenes of Pittsburgh was announced to start his second consecutive All-Star Game for the National League. This honor highlights Skenes' remarkable performance in the MLB season, as he becomes the first pitcher to accomplish back-to-back All-Star starts since Max Scherzer and Chris Sale in 2017 and 2018. With an impressive average four-seam fastball velocity of 98.2 mph, he ranks at the top among his peers alongside fellow pitcher Tarik Skubal of Detroit, who is set to open for the American League. Last year's All-Star appearance was notable for Skenes as he pitched a scoreless first inning after only 11 major league appearances. This feat marked a record for the fewest starts before an All-Star Game. Despite struggling with a 4-8 record this season, Skenes has maintained a stellar ERA of 2.01, leading the league, showcasing his skill and cementing his place as a significant player at a young age. Tarik Skubal, on the other hand, also demonstrated his extraordinary talent as the reigning AL Cy Young Award winner, having an impressive record of 10-3 with a 2.23 ERA. Their matchup in the All-Star Game not only emphasizes individual talents but also serves as an exciting moment for fans, highlighting the dynamic competition within major league baseball. The All-Star Game is a showcase of the best talent in baseball and Skenes' performance this season exemplifies what the league has come to expect from him. The recognition he receives through consecutive All-Star selections likely encourages aspiring young players, demonstrating that hard work and skill can lead to unprecedented achievements at an early stage in their careers.