Nearing the Ides of March, as the excitement of spring training begins to overshadow the monotony of offseason routines, we find a pitching sensation preparing for the next big game. Paul Skenes, widely regarded as a transformative figure in professional baseball, approaches his pregame bullpen work with the precision and focus of a neurosurgeon readying for surgery. The last rays of sun in Sarasota, Florida, cast a glow on his determined face as he prepares to take the mound.
Skenes, who stands three steps away from the bullpen rubber, executes his well-practiced routine with an intensity that is almost maniacal. His delivery is fluid; he steps onto the rubber without breaking his stride, showcasing a movement known as the Angled Walk-In. This technique allows him to engage his upper body effectively, ensuring that his hand positions the baseball perfectly for a powerful throw. Each movement is part of a meticulously choreographed routine, demonstrating the level of dedication and scientific understanding he brings to his craft.
Unlike many pitchers who casually toss the ball, Skenes focuses on precision. He understands the importance of proper mechanics and the perils of wasted throws. Midway through his warm-up, he stops to honor the national anthem, showcasing his respect for tradition and discipline. Skenes, who previously attended the U.S. Air Force Academy, recalls a moment when he confronted fellow cadets for not standing at attention during the anthem, a testament to his unwavering commitment to honor and respect.
Last season, despite debuting in the major leagues only on May 11, Skenes made headlines by throwing over 100 pitches exceeding 100 mph—almost double the amount of any other starting pitcher. His repertoire includes six different pitch types, and he has consistently hit every speed increment between 79 and 102 mph. With a remarkable ERA of 1.96 and a WHIP of 0.95, he achieved unprecedented success among first-year pitchers with at least 23 starts in the past 113 years.
However, the pursuit of high velocity comes with significant risks. A study released by Major League Baseball (MLB) identified increased pitch velocity as a primary cause of the rising injury epidemic among pitchers. With Skenes averaging an impressive 96.6 mph with his four-seam fastball, he is among a select group of pitchers maintaining this speed without facing severe injuries. The dangers are evident, as many of his peers have undergone Tommy John surgeries, leading to caution among teams and trainers.
“I didn’t read that study,” Skenes admits, demonstrating his focus on personal development rather than external fears. He is determined to understand what the successful pitchers, like Gerrit Cole and Justin Verlander, do to avoid injuries. “I’m trying to be the first guy to do these things right,” he states, reflecting an ambition that drives his training and performance.
With his trainer, Eugene Bleecker, Skenes leaves no stone unturned in his preparation. Bleecker’s unique training methods, including innovative drills that mimic the pitching motion without the strain of throwing, emphasize the importance of body awareness and movement efficiency. Their collaboration has transformed Skenes from a catcher at the U.S. Air Force Academy into a dominant pitcher.
As Skenes' training progressed, his velocity soared. He transitioned from throwing in the low 80s to hitting 103 mph at LSU. His comprehensive training regimen includes guidance from pitching coach Wes Johnson and a team of nutritionists and mental skills coaches, solidifying his status as a premier pitcher in the league.
Comparisons to other great pitchers, including Stephen Strasburg, often arise, but Skenes is intent on forging his own path. His pitching mechanics, particularly the timing of his delivery, have been honed to reduce injury risk. By mastering the crucial separation between his pelvis and torso rotations, he maximizes velocity while minimizing strain on his arm.
The modern landscape of pitching has evolved, with elite throwers like Skenes leading the charge. As the average four-seam velocity in MLB continues to rise, Skenes represents the pinnacle of this trend. His dedication to understanding the mechanics of his body and the art of pitching positions him not just as a participant in the game, but as a pioneer redefining what is possible for future generations of pitchers.
In a sport increasingly defined by velocity and power, Paul Skenes stands out as a player who balances fierce competitiveness with strategic awareness. His journey from Air Force cadet to the No. 1 overall pick in the MLB draft is a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence.
As he continues to push the limits of pitching and redefine its standards, Skenes embodies the spirit of innovation and determination. With each pitch, he not only aims for success on the field but also seeks to inspire a new generation of pitchers to approach the game with purpose and a commitment to excellence.
