Why Paul Skenes Might Be a Bust: A Closer Look at His MLB Future

By Oliver Wiener May 08, 2024 15:27

Paul Skenes, the young pitching sensation from LSU, has been making waves in the baseball world. His stellar career at LSU and his subsequent first-round pick by the Pirates have set the stage for what was expected to be a promising future in Major League Baseball. However, despite the initial hype and success, there are growing concerns about Skenes' long-term prospects in the MLB, and here's why.

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The Rise to Fame

Paul Skenes' journey to the top began during his time at LSU, where he showcased exceptional pitching skills that caught the eye of scouts and fans alike. His impressive performance at the college level led to him being selected as a first-round pick by the Pittsburgh Pirates. This was a clear testament to his talent and potential as a top-tier pitcher.

The 2023 MLB Draft and the Hype

Skenes' ascent continued when he was chosen as the first overall pick in the 2023 MLB draft. This further solidified the high expectations surrounding his entry into the professional league. The excitement and anticipation among fans and analysts were palpable, with many predicting a bright future for the young pitcher.

The Concerns

Despite the initial fanfare, there are legitimate concerns regarding Paul Skenes' ability to live up to the hype and deliver on his potential in the MLB. The primary cause for concern revolves around the high likelihood of Skenes requiring Tommy John surgery at some point in his career. This procedure, named after former MLB pitcher Tommy John, is a reconstructive surgery on the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) of the elbow. It is a common operation for pitchers who place significant stress on their arms due to the velocity of their throws.

The Tommy John Conundrum

Given Skenes' remarkable velocity on his pitches, there is a real risk of him succumbing to the fate of many hard-throwing pitchers before him. The strain on his arm from consistently throwing at such high speeds increases the likelihood of UCL injury, which often leads to the need for Tommy John surgery. While the procedure has become somewhat routine in the world of baseball, it still represents a substantial setback for any pitcher, with a lengthy and uncertain recovery period.

The Impact on Performance

Even if Skenes manages to avoid the dreaded Tommy John surgery, there are lingering concerns about the long-term impact on his performance. The aftermath of such a procedure often leads to a decrease in a pitcher's velocity and, more critically, a potential loss of command over their pitches. This loss of command can significantly alter a pitcher's effectiveness on the mound, as precision and control are paramount in the MLB.

The Future Outlook

In light of these factors, it's reasonable to question whether Paul Skenes will be able to fulfill the lofty expectations set for him. The combination of injury concerns and the potential deterioration of his pitching abilities raises red flags about his future in the MLB. While Skenes undoubtedly possesses remarkable talent, the harsh realities of the sport may hinder his ability to reach his full potential.

The Potential

Paul Skenes' journey from college standout to first overall pick in the MLB draft is undoubtedly impressive. However, the looming shadow of injury and its potential impact on his performance raises legitimate doubts about his ability to thrive at the professional level. While it's too early to make definitive judgments, the cautionary tales of other hard-throwing pitchers serve as sobering reminders of the challenges that lie ahead for Skenes. Only time will tell whether he can defy the odds and carve out a successful career in Major League Baseball.