Paul Skenes Selected as the No. 1 Overall Pick in the 2023 MLB Draft

Paul Skenes

Paul Skenes, who was one of the leading teammates in LCU, has been selected as the top pick in Major League Baseball’s Amateur on July 9. The Pittsburgh Pirates has chosen Paul Skenes along with his teammate, Dylan Crewes, the star duo who came victorious in the Men’s College World Series and prepared the drafts accordingly. Seattle Mariners officially announced the selection of Paul Skenes to be the No. 1 pick. After the selection process and the subsequent announcement of the same Skenes expressed his surprise and profound enthusiasm to be chosen as the first overall pick. 

Paul Skenes’ Past Records As An Amateur Baseball Player

Paul Skenes set his records with a 1.69 ERA and 209 strikeouts in 122 2/3 innings for LSU. Paul, the 6-foot-6 right-handed baseball star was the first pitcher and an extraordinarily gifted sportsman at the MCWS along with being selected as the No. 1 pick in the MLB draft. Throwing a good fastball that often reaches triple digits, Paul Skenes, ranked third by ESPN’s Kiley McDaniel, might break into the major league in 2024. Skenes shares his statement of self-assessment to the media by stating that he is close to the target and he will try his best to reach that level. 

Following Paul Skenes, Dylan Crews, who was a two-time SEC player of the year, also gained the reputation of bringing exceptional defense in the field; so much so that Mike Rizzo, Nationals President of Baseball Operation called him an impactful player who lines up with the records.

Pirates were on the lookout for selecting the top picks for the second time with the incentive that the players and teams can negotiate their bonus now. Pirates’ general manager Ben Cherington announced that an agreement will be made shortly and Skenes will be able to pitch in the Pirates in 2023. He also adds that whatever change is made to the new schedule, it must align with his convenience. 

Although controversy is arising as to whether Paul Skenes would be the top pick, it is apparent that Pirates had been running after him since his days at El Toro High School and his contribution as a brilliant catcher. Pointing out his record of 1.11 ERA in 32 1/3 innings and his inputs in bringing the school’s first baseball championship, Cherington appreciates his discipline, dedication, and constant striving to bring out the best in him.