Paul Skenes: The Ace Forged by Duty, Discipline, and a Triple-Digit Fastball

Paul Skenes isn’t just a pitcher. He’s a towering force—6 feet, 6 inches of concentrated talent forged in the demanding crucible of the United States Air Force Academy and sharpened into an absolute weapon for the Pittsburgh Pirates.

His fastball screams past 100 mph, his “splinker” pitch leaves hitters bewildered, and his on-field presence carries the quiet discipline of a man who once dreamed of flying fighter jets.

At just 23, Skenes has vaulted from college phenom to a top-tier Major League Baseball ace, collecting a Rookie of the Year award and a National League Cy Young Award in his first two seasons.

He’s not just one of the game’s best young talents; he’s one half of baseball’s most-watched power couple with social media superstar Livvy Dunne. This is the story of Paul Skenes, the California kid who traded a military oath for the mound, but never lost the warrior’s mindset.

The Arm of an Ace, The Mind of a Cadet

Born Paul David Skenes on May 29, 2002, in Fullerton, California, his early life was rooted in the structure and values of service. His parents, Craig and Karen, instilled a strong sense of discipline, and with uncles who served in the Navy and Coast Guard, the military path felt natural.

After a standout high school career at El Toro High, Skenes made a defining decision: he committed to the Air Force Academy. This wasn’t a stopgap; it was a genuine calling. For two seasons, he was the model cadet, carrying the American flag at sporting events and embracing the full rigor of academy life, which included:

• Flying in F-15 and F-16 fighter jets (pulling over 8 Gs).

• Survival training and jumping off 10-meter platforms.

• Boxing classes, learning to take a punch and endure.

His Air Force coach, Mike Kazlausky, later noted that their goal was to mold him into a “war fighter, not just a baseball player.” This foundation of integrity and excellence became the engine for his future baseball dominance.

“It was the easiest decision of my life to go there, hardest decision of my life to leave.” – Paul Skenes on his time at the Air Force Academy.

The Unstoppable Force: Paul Skenes and the Cy Young Crown

The moment Paul Skenes stepped onto the major league mound, the conversation shifted from “potential” to “dominance.”

His performance confirmed the immense hype that followed his selection as the first overall pick in the 2023 MLB Draft.

By the end of his sophomore professional season in 2025, Skenes had completed a historic run of individual achievement that stunned baseball analysts and fans alike.

In 2024, Skenes earned the National League Rookie of the Year Award.¹ This was followed by an even more brilliant campaign in 2025, culminating in him clinching the prestigious National League Cy Young Award.

This back-to-back achievement—Rookie of the Year followed immediately by the Cy Young—is a feat of statistical dominance that had gone unmatched in the National League for four decades, echoing the remarkable consecutive wins achieved by New York Mets star Dwight Gooden in 1984 and 1985.

Skenes, at just 23 years old, quickly established himself as a legitimate ace. His 2025 season included leading all of MLB in Earned Run Average (ERA) with a stifling 1.97, while compiling 216 strikeouts in $187\frac{1}{3}$ innings pitched.

This level of immediate, sustained excellence is exceedingly rare, suggesting that Skenes possesses not just elite physical gifts, but also an unprecedented level of mental preparedness and emotional maturity. These traits are often developed through intense personal challenges, which Skenes faced well before he arrived in Pittsburgh.

The Air Force Foundation: Discipline, Duty, and the Dual Path

To understand the composure Paul Skenes demonstrates under the glare of the MLB spotlight, one must look back at his upbringing and the profound decision that shaped his early adulthood: attending the United States Air Force Academy.

Skenes grew up in Orange County, California, attending El Toro High School. His dedication to excellence was evident early on; he was team captain and graduated with an exceptional 4.76 GPA, ranking 11th in his class.

Baseball was a family tradition—his father, Craig Skenes, was a player, and the sport was central to their lives, alongside his mother, Karen, and his two sisters, Lauren and Kristen.

A Commitment to Service

His decision to attend the Air Force Academy was deeply rooted in his values and his family history, with several uncles serving in the Navy and the Coast Guard.⁵ Skenes initially prioritized service, viewing professional baseball as secondary.

“Playing professional baseball was a dream of mine, but it wasn’t the primary dream,” Skenes told reporters.

“Really, all I wanted to do was play college baseball and go somewhere and know that I had a good career lined up ahead of me, and Air Force was pretty much the perfect place for that”.

During his time with the Air Force Falcons, Skenes was an extraordinary two-way player, splitting time between pitcher, catcher, and designated hitter.

He earned the prestigious John Olerud Award in 2022, recognizing him as the best two-way college baseball player in the country.

This commitment to the Academy became the defining non-baseball element of his story, showcasing the extreme discipline required to manage high academics alongside elite athletics.

This demanding background instilled the poise and sense of duty that would later characterize his professional career and philanthropic efforts.

The $9.2 Million Pivot: LSU and the Pitching Renaissance

Despite his early success, Skenes realized that balancing military service and professional baseball posed a complex challenge. He came to a difficult, strategic realization about the short window of opportunity in professional sports.

“I realized I’ve got one shot at this,” Skenes explained. “I’ve got a couple shots at serving. There are a lot of people who join the Air Force or Navy when they’re 30, 40 years old. There aren’t people who do that in baseball, so I may as well give it my best shot”.

This calculated decision, which he called “the toughest decision of my life,” was the inflection point that launched him to stardom.

Focusing on the Mound

Ahead of his junior season, Skenes transferred to Louisiana State University (LSU), specifically seeking out pitching coach Wes Johnson to maximize his potential.

The move required a calculated sacrifice: Skenes stopped hitting and catching, committing 100% of his focus and physical resources to pitching.

He recognized that maintaining a two-way identity would be taxing on his 6-foot-6 frame and would hinder his development as a pitcher. “If I were a two-way player, I know my body would not feel as good as it did throughout the year,” he noted.

By prioritizing the mound, Skenes transitioned from a celebrated two-way novelty to a singular, optimized pitching machine.

Under Johnson’s tutelage, Skenes underwent a mechanical transformation that optimized his lower-half movement and refined his secondary pitches.

Crucially, they worked on splitting his grip on his slider, which helped develop the modern “sweeper” breaking ball.

This focus rapidly elevated him, validating his strategic choice and transforming him into one of the sport’s elite prospects.

College World Series Glory and Draft History

Skenes’ 2023 season at LSU was legendary. He led the nation in strikeouts (209) and WHIP (0.75), and was second in ERA (1.69).

His dominance culminated in leading the LSU Tigers to the Men’s College World Series championship, where he was named the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player.

He entered the 2023 MLB Draft as the most anticipated pitching prospect since Stephen Strasburg in 2009.

The Pittsburgh Pirates selected him first overall, signing him to a $\$9.2$ million bonus, which was, at the time, the largest signing bonus in MLB Draft history. The size of this bonus confirmed the extreme confidence the scouting world had in his optimized talent.

Anatomy of an Ace: Breaking Down the Skenes Arsenal

Skenes’ immediate and sustained success in the major leagues can be attributed to a powerful physical profile combined with a meticulously crafted pitch mix. At 6 feet 6 inches and approximately 260 pounds, his size contributes to the intimidating downhill angle and velocity of his pitches.

His four-seam fastball is his signature pitch, utilizing it about 40% of the time. The velocity consistently averages 98.2 miles per hour and regularly exceeds the 100 mph threshold. However, the key to his dominance is that the velocity sets up an advanced, deep array of secondary pitches, ensuring hitters cannot sit on speed alone.

The Nuanced Repertoire

The mechanical adjustments made at LSU allowed Skenes to maximize deception and movement on his non-fastball offerings.

Analysts emphasize that Skenes’ pitching is about quality execution, not just speed. His combination of pitches results in excellent contact management.

For the 2025 season, opposing batters generated an average exit velocity of just 87.6 mph, and his Barrel percentage was a remarkably low 5.8%.

These metrics reveal that when batters do make contact, Skenes’ delivery and pitch movement suppress hard hits and limit the opportunity for extra-base power.

Comparative Excellence

When measured against peers like Tarik Skubal, the American League Cy Young winner in 2025, Skenes demonstrated a superior ability to limit dangerous contact.

While both pitchers were similarly outstanding at keeping opponents off the bases, advanced metrics showed Skenes was slightly better at preventing balls from turning into home runs, indicating a high level of physical conditioning and mechanical consistency that translates into sustained performance.

The “Air Skenes” Era in Pittsburgh

After a brief but electrifying stint in the minors, Skenes made his much-anticipated MLB debut on May 11, 2024. He immediately lived up to the hype, bringing an aggressive, high-velocity approach the Pirates had rarely seen.

Milestone Machine: 2024 and 2025 Stats

Skenes didn’t just play; he instantly became one of the most dominant pitchers in baseball. His performance over his first two seasons is one of the greatest starts to an MLB pitching career in modern history, drawing comparisons to legends like Stephen Strasburg and Gerrit Cole.

Notable Achievements:

• 2024 NL Rookie of the Year

• 2025 NL Cy Young Award Winner

• 2x MLB All-Star (2024, 2025)

• 2025 MLB ERA Leader

His 2025 ERA of $1.97$ was the first sub-$2.00$ ERA by a starting pitcher in the National League since 2015. He set a Pirates franchise record for most strikeouts by a right-handed pitcher with 216 in the 2025 season alone.

Shared Spotlight: Paul Skenes and Livvy Dunne

Beyond the baseball diamond, Skenes’ personal life has made just as many headlines, largely due to his relationship with social media sensation and former LSU gymnast, Livvy Dunne.

How Does Livvy Dunne Know Paul Skenes?

Their connection is a classic college story: they were introduced by mutual friends while both were student-athletes at LSU. Skenes’ roommate was dating Dunne’s roommate. Despite their differing levels of public profile—Skenes avoiding social media and Dunne being one of the top NCAA earners via Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals—they bonded over their mutual understanding of intense athletic pressure.

• Public Debut: The couple confirmed their relationship in August 2023, after Dunne was spotted wearing his jersey during the College World Series.

• The Yin and Yang: Dunne has described their relationship as “yin and yang.” She thrives in the spotlight with millions of followers, while Skenes is notably private. This balance works, as they mutually support each other’s demanding careers.

• The Challenges of Fame: Skenes has acknowledged the difficulty of dating a highly visible public figure, noting he often wishes Dunne could attend his games without being swarmed by fans seeking photos.

Navigating Celebrity and Media Pressure

The intense focus on the couple has presented unique challenges. Skenes has openly discussed the difficulties of maintaining a private life, noting his frustration that Dunne often cannot attend a game and “just enjoy it” without fans swarming her for selfies.

This vulnerability highlights the immense external pressure Skenes manages, demonstrating that his ability to perform at a historic level despite such distractions requires exceptional mental focus—a quality nurtured by his Air Force discipline.

The chaotic nature of their life was perfectly illustrated during Skenes’ MLB call-up in May 2024. The couple awoke from a nap to missed calls confirming the news, missed their scheduled flight, and had to endure a frantic six-hour drive to Pittsburgh to arrive in time for his debut.

Dunne later reflected on the moment at PNC Park, saying, “Seriously, there’s nothing that can top this. I’m just so proud,” underscoring the mutual support essential for their high-stakes careers.

Immediate Impact: The Historic First Act (2024 Rookie Season)

Following his selection, Skenes flew through the Pirates’ farm system in just one season, signaling his readiness for the big leagues. His MLB debut on May 11, 2024, against the Chicago Cubs, was one of the most anticipated starts in franchise history.

While the box score showed 4 innings pitched, 6 hits, 3 earned runs, 2 walks, and 7 strikeouts, the underlying velocity was historic. Skenes threw 17 pitches at 100 mph or faster, an unprecedented feat for a pitcher in his debut.

Setting Records in the Live Ball Era

Skenes quickly smoothed out any initial jitters, cementing his dominance over the remainder of the season. His rookie year statistical achievements placed him in rarefied air:

• He was named the starting pitcher for the National League in the 2024 All-Star Game, becoming only the fifth rookie in MLB history to earn that honor.

• He became the first rookie pitcher in the Live Ball Era (since 1920) to make at least 18 starts and post an ERA under 2.00, finishing the year with a microscopic 1.96 ERA.

• His.198 batting average against was the lowest ever recorded by a Pittsburgh Pirates starting pitcher in team history.

These rapid-fire accomplishments—from the farm system straight to historic MLB statistics—proved that the mechanical and mental optimization achieved at LSU immediately transferred to the highest level of the sport. His performance in 2024 earned him a unanimous selection as the National League Rookie of the Year.

The Burden of Expectation: A Pirate for the Future

Skenes’ arrival in Pittsburgh transcended typical organizational excitement; he represents hope for a fanbase that has endured six straight losing seasons.

Skenes has embraced this pressure, framing his role not just as an athlete but as someone with a civic responsibility.

He views his success as a form of duty to the community. “I think we owe something to the city,” Skenes said. “We owe a lot to the city. It’s our job to go out and win for the city because this is bigger than all of us”.

He specifically cited the need for the Pirates organization to set a higher benchmark, stating that the previous Wild Card era should not remain the “golden era” and that “that needs to change”.

This “duty mindset,” deeply ingrained from his Air Force background, resonates powerfully with the dedicated Pittsburgh fanbase, transforming him into the undisputed face of the franchise.

The importance of Skenes to the team’s future was made evident during the 2025 offseason. Despite the natural trade rumors that swirl around star players on rebuilding teams, Pirates General Manager Ben Cherington emphatically shut down any speculation, confirming that Skenes is the foundation upon which the team will build a winner.

Cherington emphasized that Skenes’ motivation is purely focused on winning, which ultimately simplifies the organization’s long-term goal: “What probably gives us the best chance to keep him in Pittsburgh for longer is winning games”.

Beyond the Contract: Service, Charity, and Legacy

Skenes understands that true greatness in Pittsburgh is measured by more than just statistics, recognizing the towering legacy of Roberto Clemente.

Skenes has made an effort to understand the humanitarian half of Clemente’s life, frequently visiting the Roberto Clemente Museum. This alignment with civic duty led to Skenes being named the Pirates’ nominee for the 2025 Roberto Clemente Award.

His strong ties to the military community inform his primary philanthropic effort. Skenes initiated a significant campaign, pledging to donate $\$100$ for every strikeout to the Gary Sinise Foundation, which supports veterans, first responders, and their families.

Performance as Philanthropy

This commitment directly links his on-field performance to a greater good, ensuring his fame serves a higher purpose. After tallying 209 strikeouts in his historic 2023 college season, his pledge continued into the professional ranks.

In 2025, between his own contribution and fan support, the campaign surpassed its goal, raising over $\$150,000$ for the foundation.

Skenes’ dedication to service is also displayed through less publicized acts, such as donating tickets to local veterans for every home game and volunteering time for community projects, including refreshing spaces for families at the Pittsburgh Veteran’s Hospital.

This pattern of behavior supports his mother’s observation that Paul’s goal is not merely to succeed in the Majors, but “to build something bigger”.

This narrative is further reinforced by his long-term plan to eventually fulfill his commitment to military service once his professional baseball career concludes.

Financial Profile and Future Outlook

While Skenes operates with a mindset focused on duty and performance, his early financial trajectory reflects his status as a generational talent.

Financial Overview (Through 2025)

Skenes’ early wealth is dominated by his massive signing bonus, validating the high confidence placed in his potential before he threw a single professional pitch.

His current base salary is standard for a pre-arbitration player. With his high profile, including his relationship with Livvy Dunne, whose personal net worth is estimated at $\$6$ million, their combined financial status is also a point of considerable public interest.

Looking ahead, the key challenge for Skenes will be balancing the demands of an extended MLB schedule with the need to protect his power arm. He has already established himself as a perennial Cy Young contender alongside fellow young aces.

His disciplined approach, honed at the Air Force Academy and refined at LSU, suggests he possesses the internal fortitude required to manage the physical toll of his high-velocity workload and the media intensity that follows him and Dunne.

Concluding Career Summary: The Generational Talent Arrives

Paul Skenes is defined by a unique blend of historical athletic achievement and profound commitment to service.

He is a product of high-stakes choices, rigorous training, and strategic focus, qualities that have allowed him to bypass the typical learning curve of a top prospect.

Paul Skenes is not simply leading the Pittsburgh Pirates’ resurgence; he is setting a new standard for what a young ace can achieve, both on the mound and within the community. His story is a powerful example of how purpose, when combined with generational talent, can create a legacy far exceeding the baseball diamond.

Paul Skenes: Quick Profile & Legacy

Skenes represents a rare blend of supreme athletic talent and mental toughness instilled by a commitment to service. He is the face of a new generation of pitchers, combining raw power with meticulous, data-driven preparation.

What’s So Special About Paul Skenes?

It’s the complete package. It’s not just the 100+ mph fastball; it’s the maturity, the laser-focus, and the two-pitch mix (fastball and splinker) that make him nearly unhittable.

He is an old-school competitor with a new-school understanding of analytics, all wrapped in a frame built to dominate.

He is already staking his claim as the face of the Pirates franchise and one of the premier pitchers in the game.

Sources

• DK Pittsburgh Sports. “Forged by military schooling and drive, how Paul Skenes ascended to No. 1 pick with Pirates.”

• Military.com. “How the Air Force Academy Molded Paul Skenes into the Biggest Story in Baseball.”

• Sports Illustrated. “Paul Skenes Plans to Enter Military After MLB Career.”

• TMZ. “Who Is Paul Skenes’ Girlfriend Livvy Dunne? Get To Know The Influencer.”

• Newsweek. “Livvy Dunne and Paul Skenes’ relationship timeline.”

• The Knot. “All About Paul Skenes’ Girlfriend Livvy Dunne and Their Relationship.”

• Spotrac News. “Projecting a Paul Skenes Contract Extension.”

• Baseball-Reference. Paul Skenes Career Statistics (through 2025 season).

• MLB.com. Paul Skenes Stats, Age, Position, Height, Weight, Fantasy & News.

• Britannica. Paul Skenes Biography.

• Celebrity Net Worth. Paul Skenes Net Worth.

• Times of India. “Paul Skenes’ contract: How much is Pirates’ star paid in 2025.”