Paul Skenes' 2025 Cy Young Odds: Will A Slow Start Hurt His Chances?

David

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Post on Jun 12, 2025

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Paul Skenes' 2025 Cy Young Odds: Will a Slow Start Hurt His Chances?

Paul Skenes, the highly touted Pittsburgh Pirates pitching prospect, burst onto the scene with electric stuff and sky-high expectations. Drafted first overall in the 2023 MLB Draft, many predict a bright future, even speculating about a potential Cy Young Award in the coming years. But a slightly slower-than-expected start to his professional career has some questioning: will this impact his odds of winning a Cy Young in 2025?

The buzz around Skenes is undeniable. His fastball routinely touches triple digits, complemented by a devastating slider and developing changeup. His potential is immense, making him a favorite among baseball analysts and fans alike. Pre-season odds for a 2025 Cy Young win have already been released by various sportsbooks, placing him among the contenders, though not necessarily at the very top. However, his recent performances have sparked debate.

A Closer Look at Skenes' Early Struggles:

Skenes' minor league debut hasn't been the flawless ascent many projected. While showcasing flashes of brilliance, he's experienced some growing pains, including command issues and a higher-than-expected walk rate. This isn't entirely unexpected for a young pitcher adjusting to professional baseball, but it does raise questions about his readiness for a potential Cy Young run in just two years.

• Command Issues: Skenes' exceptional velocity is a significant weapon, but without precise control, it can be less effective. Working on refining his command will be crucial for his development.
• Walk Rate: A higher-than-desired walk rate can significantly impact a pitcher's effectiveness, leading to higher pitch counts and increased fatigue. Addressing this issue is paramount for long-term success.
• Minor League Adjustment: The jump from college to professional baseball is significant. Pitchers often need time to adapt to the increased competition and different approaches batters take against them.

Can He Still Win the Cy Young in 2025?

Despite the early challenges, it's far too early to count Skenes out of the 2025 Cy Young conversation. His raw talent is undeniable, and with proper development and coaching, he could easily overcome these initial hurdles. The Pirates' organization is renowned for its player development, suggesting they'll provide Skenes with the necessary support to refine his skills.

His timeline to the majors also plays a role. A quicker-than-expected promotion could give him more experience in the higher levels, though rushing him could prove detrimental. The Pirates will need to carefully manage his workload and progression to maximize his potential.

Factors Affecting Skenes' 2025 Cy Young Odds:

• Continued Development: Skenes' ability to refine his command and reduce his walk rate will be key.
• Injury Prevention: Staying healthy throughout the next two seasons is crucial for any player vying for a Cy Young.
• Team Performance: While individual accolades are important, a strong team performance can significantly boost a pitcher's chances of winning a Cy Young. The Pirates' overall success will have an impact.
• Competition: The AL and NL will boast numerous other talented pitchers vying for the Cy Young award in 2025. The competition will be fierce.

Conclusion:

While Skenes' early minor league performance may slightly diminish his immediate 2025 Cy Young odds, it's not a death knell. His potential remains incredibly high. His journey will be one to watch closely, and the next two years will be pivotal in determining whether he can overcome his initial challenges and live up to the immense hype surrounding him. The question isn't if he can be a star, but when he’ll reach his peak performance. Only time will tell if he can achieve the coveted Cy Young Award in 2025. Stay tuned for further updates on this exciting young pitcher's progress.