Is Paul Skenes Ready to Torch MLB or Needs More Minor League Seasoning?

Paul Skenes is a name that has become synonymous with flamethrowing heat. This youth has ignited a firestorm in baseball circles. So much so that the #1 overall pick from the 2023 draft has taken Triple-A by storm. He boasts a sub-1.00 ERA and a strikeout rate that would make even the most elite major league pitchers shake. But one question hangs heavy in the air. 

This 21-year-old phenom is ready to torch the big leagues. There are two sides to this story. There are proponents of Skenes’ immediate promotion point to his undeniable dominance. And there are some who want to take a cautious approach. So is he really ready for the big leagues? 

John Smoltz shares his opinion on Paul Skenes’ major league-level play

His fastball, which was a searing missile that consistently records at 100 mph, is major league caliber right now. Presently, he leads Triple-A in triple-digit strikeouts, surpassing even seasoned big league pitchers. John Smoltz the Atlanta Braves’ legend said, “He’s got the stuff of an MLB ace, plain and simple. Why hold him back?  He can contribute immediately and bolster a team’s pitching staff.” 

Skenes’ flaming arsenal could definitely be a game-changer, striking fear into the hearts of opposing hitters. With that, there is potential to propel his team towards a deep playoff run. Despite that, there is an aspect where folks want to take a more cautious approach, emphasizing the significant jump in competition from college ball to the big leagues. 

John also went on to say that, “There’s a big difference between facing college hitters and seasoned major league veterans. College pitchers, even the most dominant ones, often struggle to adjust to the advanced hitting approaches and the overall speed of the big league game.”  Rushing Skenes to the major leagues might expose him to the next level, potentially hindering his development and confidence too early. So what is the ideal scenario. 

When should Paul Skenes play the Majors?

The ideal scenario lies somewhat in between these two extremes. Skenes’ dominance is unshakeable, however a controlled ascent through the minor leagues could be more beneficial in the long run. It’s possible that a late-season call-up to the majors, might allow him to experience the big league atmosphere in a controlled fashion. Perhaps a good first step. 

Alternatively, a dominant performance in the Triple-A playoffs could offer him a valuable stage to showcase his skills and might build his confidence before facing the best hitters in the world. Irrespective of the timeline for his major league debut, one thing is evident – the excitement surrounding Paul Skenes is electric. The debate over ‘when’ he reaches the majors is far from over.