BREAKING NEWS’: Pittsburgh pirates Star Paul Skenes has shocked the National Basketball Association (MBL) world with a selfless act that transcends the game of MBL. Upon signing his MBL contract, Paul Skenes made the bold and compassionate decision to donate his entire $52 million signing bonus to…..…see more..
In a stunning and inspiring move that has left both fans and players in awe, **Pittsburgh Pirates pitching phenom Paul Skenes** has made headlines not for a blazing fastball or dominant debut — but for an act of compassion that transcends the game of baseball.
Upon officially signing his **\$52 million MLB contract**, Skenes has donated **the entirety of his signing bonus** to a bold new charitable initiative aimed at fighting **mental health stigma, youth suicide, and addiction recovery services** across America.
> “I’ve been blessed beyond belief,” Skenes said in a heartfelt press statement. “And I want to use what I’ve been given to make real, lasting change for those who feel unseen and unheard.”
### The Skenes Strong Foundation
The funds will launch the **Skenes Strong Foundation**, a nationwide nonprofit that will focus on three core missions:
* **Building and funding mental health support centers** in under-resourced communities
* **Expanding access to therapy and crisis intervention** for teenagers and veterans
* **Partnering with schools and youth sports leagues** to create safe spaces and mentorship programs
Skenes, 23, who was the **No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 MLB Draft**, has spoken publicly in the past about witnessing the mental health struggles of teammates, classmates, and family members — something he says left a lasting impact.
> “I’ve lost people I loved to things we don’t talk about enough,” Skenes shared. “If this money can stop even one person from giving up, then it’s already worth more than any contract.”
### Reactions from Around the League
The MLB community has responded with an outpouring of respect and admiration. Pirates manager **Derek Shelton** praised Skenes’ leadership, calling it “a rare kind of courage — the kind that goes far beyond the mound.”
Even players from rival teams, including Yankees ace **Gerrit Cole** and Dodgers star **Mookie Betts**, posted tributes online, thanking Skenes for “raising the bar” on what it means to be a professional athlete.
Fans have taken to social media using the hashtag **#SkenesStrong** — many sharing their own stories of mental health battles and how much it means to see a player take a stand.
### More Than a Game
In an era where player contracts continue to rise, Skenes’ decision stands as a powerful reminder that athletes can be champions both on and off the field.
While Skenes is expected to be a centerpiece of the Pirates’ pitching rotation in the 2025 season, it’s clear he’s already secured something even greater: **a legacy of purpose, empathy, and action**.
