Can Paul Skenes Overcome A Slow Start To Win The 2025 Cy Young?

David

3 min read

Post on Jun 12, 2025

4.2

Share

Can Paul Skenes Overcome a Slow Start to Win the 2025 Cy Young?

Paul Skenes, the highly touted Pittsburgh Pirates pitching prospect, burst onto the scene with electrifying potential. But a slower-than-expected start to his MLB career has sparked debate: can he still realistically contend for a 2025 Cy Young Award? This article delves into Skenes' early performance, the challenges he faces, and the factors that could ultimately determine his path to baseball's highest pitching honor.

Skenes' Promising, Yet Imperfect, Debut:

Skenes' arrival in the major leagues generated immense excitement. His college statistics were phenomenal, showcasing a devastating fastball and a sharp breaking ball. However, his transition to the big leagues hasn't been seamless. While displaying flashes of brilliance, he's encountered inconsistencies, struggling with command at times and experiencing higher-than-anticipated walk rates. This early season adversity raises questions about his readiness for the pressure and challenges of a full MLB season.

The Hurdles to a 2025 Cy Young:

Several factors could hinder Skenes' pursuit of the Cy Young:

• Command and Control: Improving his command and reducing walks will be crucial. A high walk rate can quickly inflate ERA and lead to shorter outings, limiting his opportunities for dominant performances. This is arguably his biggest hurdle.
• Durability: The demanding MLB schedule requires consistent performance over a long season. Skenes needs to prove his ability to withstand the rigors of a 162-game season and avoid injuries.
• The Competition: The National League is brimming with exceptional pitching talent. Skenes faces stiff competition from established aces like Jacob deGrom, Spencer Strider, and others, making a Cy Young win no easy feat.
• Adaptation: The learning curve for young pitchers in the majors is steep. Skenes needs to quickly adapt to the advanced hitting approaches and scouting reports he'll face regularly.

The Path to a Potential Cy Young:

Despite the challenges, Skenes possesses the raw talent to overcome his initial struggles and become a Cy Young contender. Here’s what he needs to do:

• Refine Mechanics: Working closely with the Pirates' pitching coaches to refine his mechanics and improve his command is paramount.
• Develop Secondary Pitches: While his fastball is a weapon, developing other effective pitches will make him less predictable and more difficult to hit.
• Maintain Mental Fortitude: The mental game is crucial in baseball. Skenes must learn from his early setbacks, maintain confidence, and stay focused on consistent improvement.
• Team Success: While individual performance is crucial for a Cy Young, team success often plays a role. A strong Pirates team could boost Skenes' chances by providing him more run support.

Conclusion: A Long Shot, But Not Impossible

Winning the 2025 Cy Young Award is a long shot for Paul Skenes at this stage, considering his early struggles and the intense competition. However, his potential remains undeniable. His journey will be one to watch closely, and if he can address his command issues, stay healthy, and continue to develop, he could very well surprise everyone and emerge as a serious contender in the years to come. Only time will tell if he can overcome his slow start and achieve this prestigious award. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting young pitcher's progress.