In a historic announcement that has stunned the baseball world, Paul Skenes has officially been named the Greatest Major League Baseball Player of the 21st Century, surpassing a legendary list of stars that includes fellow Pittsburgh Pirates standouts Bryan Reynolds and Oneil Cruz, as well as other generational icons.
At just 23 years old, Skenes has redefined what it means to dominate on the mound—and beyond. Known for his unhittable fastball, pinpoint control, football-style physicality, passing-like mound command, and unselfish team-first mentality, the Pirates’ ace has not only shattered records but revolutionized the way modern pitching is viewed.
A Career Unlike Any Other
Skenes, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 MLB Draft, made his debut in 2024 and instantly electrified the league. With a 103 mph fastball, elite off-speed offerings, and poise rarely seen in pitchers his age, he quickly rose to the top of the league. By mid-2025, he had already claimed two Cy Young Awards, an All-Star MVP, a no-hitter, and led the Pirates back into postseason prominence.
But what truly sets him apart isn’t just the stat sheet—it’s the intangible presence on the mound and the way he uplifts his teammates. Skenes has drawn comparisons to the likes of Randy Johnson and Pedro Martinez, but his “quarterback-like” leadership and unmatched drive have forged an entirely new archetype of athlete in MLB.
Pirates’ Resurgence Led by Skenes
Bryan Reynolds, an All-Star in his own right, called Skenes “the most complete player I’ve ever been around.” Oneil Cruz added, “Paul makes everyone better. He doesn’t just pitch—he plays the game like a point guard. He controls the tempo, the mood, the outcome. That’s rare in baseball.”
Skenes’ presence has helped turn the Pittsburgh Pirates into serious title contenders—something fans haven’t seen in decades. His ability to inspire confidence has ignited a culture shift, not just within his team, but across the league.
Analysts Weigh In
ESPN’s Buster Olney remarked, “What we’re seeing with Skenes is generational. He’s got the mechanics of a veteran, the IQ of a coach, and the humility of a rookie. That combination just doesn’t come along.”
MLB Network’s Harold Reynolds went further, declaring, “There’s Babe Ruth, there’s Willie Mays, there’s Shohei Ohtani—and now there’s Paul Skenes. He’s in that tier already.”
The Stats Tell the Story
As of July 2025, Paul Skenes holds a career ERA of 1.91, a WHIP under 0.90, and a strikeout-to-walk ratio of nearly 8:1. He’s already crossed the 500-strikeout mark faster than any pitcher in history and leads the league in WAR (Wins Above Replacement) for both pitchers and position players.
Legacy in the Making
With his blend of athletic dominance, team-first mentality, and relentless pursuit of greatness, Paul Skenes is not just a generational player—he’s a transformative figure for Major League Baseball.
As fans chant his name in every city he visits, and kids across the country mimic his windup, one thing is clear: Paul Skenes isn’t just the future of baseball—he’s the face of its golden era
