Reversed Roles

• In a twist of fate, Chicago Cubs outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong reminisces about his early encounter with Pittsburgh Pirates rookie pitcher Paul Skenes, where their roles were reversed on the field.

Childhood Connections

• Crow-Armstrong and Skenes shared the field as teammates on the United States 12U national team in Mazatlan, Mexico, in 2014, laying the groundwork for their future journeys in baseball.

Evolution of a Phenom

Humble Beginnings

• Reflecting on their youth, Crow-Armstrong recalls Skenes as a “scrawny catcher” while he excelled on the pitcher’s mound, showcasing his talent with the lowest ERA in the tournament.

Meteoric Rise

• Despite initial roles, Skenes emerged as the No. 1 overall pick in the MLB draft, captivating the baseball world with his remarkable pitching prowess and unparalleled velocity.

Spectacle on the Mound

Impressive Debut

• Skenes’ early major league career has been nothing short of spectacular, with 29 pitches exceeding 100 mph, establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with on the mound.

Must-Watch Performances

• In just two starts, Skenes has garnered attention as his outings become must-watch events, captivating fans and scouts alike with his electrifying performances.

The Phenomenon Unfolds

Ongoing Marvel

• With each pitch, Skenes continues to astound, drawing comparisons to navigating the autobahn at top speed, a testament to his relentless velocity and dominance.

Paul Skenes’ journey from a “scrawny catcher” to a pitching sensation exemplifies the unpredictable nature of baseball. As he continues to make waves in the majors, his remarkable rise serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes everywhere.