Top prospect Paul Skenes made his MLB debut with the Pittsburgh Pirates after being called up quickly following his selection as the first overall pick of the 2023 MLB Draft. Skenes previously played as the ace of the College World Series champion LSU Tigers, showcasing impressive talent that earned him the top spot in the draft. His loved ones, including his girlfriend Olivia Dunne, a gymnast and social media star from LSU, were in attendance at PNC Park to witness his debut. The support and excitement from Dunne and others in attendance added to the memorable moment for Skenes in his MLB debut.
During the game, while Skenes was in the dugout, Dunne spoke to the Pirates’ broadcast expressing her excitement and pride in Skenes’ accomplishments. She highlighted his hard work and dedication to reaching this moment, emphasizing how proud she was of him. The couple’s quick reaction to the call-up also added to the excitement, as they eagerly packed and hit the road to Pittsburgh as soon as Skenes received the news. The support from the Pittsburgh community and fans further amplified the special moment for Skenes and Dunne.
Skenes had an impressive record at Triple-A, showcasing a 0.99 ERA over his first seven starts. He demonstrated his talent by consistently throwing over 100 mph, striking out 45 batters while walking only eight. His dominant performance at Triple-A was capped off by a record $9.2 million signing bonus from the Pirates. In his MLB debut, Skenes impressed with a strong showing on the mound, striking out the first two batters he faced and reaching a top speed of 102 mph in the first inning. His performance further solidified his status as a top prospect in baseball.
The quick rise of Skenes from college standout to MLB debutante highlights his talent and potential in the sport. His impressive performance at both the college and minor league levels foreshadows a promising career in the majors. The support of his loved ones, including girlfriend Olivia Dunne, adds a personal touch to his journey, showcasing the dedication and hard work that have led to this moment. Skenes’ debut with the Pittsburgh Pirates marks the beginning of what could be a successful career in Major League Baseball, with fans and supporters eagerly following his progress.
The ecstatic response from Dunne and the Pittsburgh community further highlights the excitement surrounding Skenes’ debut and his potential in the sport. His impressive debut performance, including striking out the first two batters he faced, showcases his skill and determination on the field. Skenes’ talent and work ethic have positioned him as a top prospect in baseball, with a bright future ahead in the MLB. The support and enthusiasm from those around him, including his girlfriend and fans, add to the memorable nature of his debut and set the stage for what could be a successful career for Skenes with the Pittsburgh Pirates.
