Paul Skenes has emerged as a strong contender for National League Rookie of the Year, showcasing an impressive rookie season with an 11-3 record and a 1.99 ERA for the Pittsburgh Pirates. His performance includes a league-leading strikeout percentage and an unprecedented achievement of having an ERA below 2.20 with over 150 strikeouts through his first 21 starts, a feat not accomplished since 1913. Despite Skenes' individual success, the Pirates finished the season with a 74-85 record, marking their sixth consecutive year under .500. Skenes has already made history by breaking the franchise's rookie strikeout record and is anticipated to be a key player in the team's future improvements. Additionally, he received the Steve Blass Award as the team's top pitcher, while teammate Bryan Reynolds won the Roberto Clemente Award for team MVP, marking his third win of the accolade. Skenes' potential as a game-changer gives Pirates fans hope for a more successful 2025 season.