Predicting The 2025 AL & NL Cy Young: Will Paul Skenes' Talent Triumph?

3 min read Post on Jun 12, 2025

Predicting the 2025 AL & NL Cy Young: Will Paul Skenes' Talent Triumph?

The 2024 MLB season is barely underway, but baseball fans and analysts are already looking ahead to future awards races. One name consistently generating buzz is Paul Skenes, the highly touted Pittsburgh Pirates pitching prospect. His incredible college performance has many wondering: will Skenes' talent translate to a Cy Young Award victory as early as 2025? Let's delve into the predictions for both the American League (AL) and National League (NL) Cy Young awards in 2025, focusing on Skenes' potential and the formidable competition he'll face.

The Skenes Factor: Hype vs. Reality

Paul Skenes' ascent has been meteoric. His dominant performance at LSU, showcasing a blazing fastball and devastating slider, made him the number one overall pick in the 2023 MLB Draft. His raw talent is undeniable, and many experts predict a rapid rise through the minor leagues. However, the jump from college to the major leagues is significant. The increased competition, pressure, and adjustment to professional-level hitters could impact his immediate success. While his potential is immense, it's crucial to temper expectations. Will he be able to maintain his dominance against seasoned MLB hitters? Only time will tell.

National League (NL) Cy Young Contenders: A Crowded Field

The NL already boasts a plethora of pitching aces, making the 2025 Cy Young race incredibly competitive. Players like Spencer Strider (Braves), Zac Gallen (Diamondbacks), and Blake Snell (Padres) are likely to remain top contenders. Their consistent performance and experience give them a significant advantage over a rookie like Skenes. However, a breakout season from a young pitcher or a surprising performance from a veteran could shake things up significantly.

American League (AL) Cy Young: A Similar Battle

The AL landscape is equally challenging. Established stars such as Shohei Ohtani (Angels – assuming he continues pitching), Shane McClanahan (Rays), and Gerrit Cole (Yankees) will be major players in the Cy Young conversation. The AL also features several promising young pitchers who could emerge as strong contenders by 2025. The AL's competitiveness could make it even harder for a rookie to claim the award.

Skenes' Path to a 2025 Cy Young: A Steep Climb

For Paul Skenes to win a Cy Young award in 2025, several factors must align. Firstly, he needs to rapidly progress through the Pirates' minor league system and demonstrate consistent dominance. He'll need to adapt quickly to the major leagues, mastering his pitching approach and refining his secondary pitches. Secondly, he'll require a degree of luck. Injuries to other top contenders or a significant drop-off in their performance could create an opening for Skenes to seize the opportunity. Finally, the Pirates will need to provide him with the necessary support system to succeed. A strong defense and timely offense will be crucial in maximizing his potential.

Conclusion: A Long Shot, But Not Impossible

While a 2025 Cy Young for Paul Skenes is a long shot, it's not entirely improbable. His raw talent is undeniable, and with the right development and a bit of luck, he could certainly make a serious run at the award. However, he faces an uphill battle against seasoned veterans and other promising young pitchers in both leagues. The 2025 Cy Young race promises to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, regardless of whether Skenes emerges victorious. The next two years will be crucial in determining his future and the outcome of this prestigious award. Stay tuned for updates as the 2024 season progresses and the path to the 2025 Cy Young unfolds.