Paul Skenes Wins NL Rookie of the Year

Paul Skenes of the Pittsburgh Pirates has been awarded the 2024 NL Rookie of the Year, receiving 23 out of 30 first-place votes, making him the first Pirate to win the award since Jason Bay in 2004. Skenes, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 MLB draft, made a significant impact during his rookie season, ending with an 11-3 record, a 1.96 ERA, and 170 strikeouts in 133 innings pitched. His achievements also include being a finalist for the NL Cy Young Award and starting in the All-Star Game, a rare feat for a rookie pitcher. Jackson Merrill of the Padres and Jackson Chourio of the Brewers finished second and third, respectively, showcasing a competitive rookie class. Skenes' performance included setting a Pirates franchise record for rookie strikeouts and holding opponents to a .198 batting average. Despite the Pirates finishing last in the NL Central, Skenes' success offers hope for the team's future.