Pirates' Paul Skenes Extends Impact Far Beyond Pitching Mound

The 23-year-old ace has become a team leader, influencing the organization in numerous ways beyond his dominant on-field performance.

Mar. 15, 2026 at 4:36pm

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As Paul Skenes prepares to take the mound for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic semifinals, his impact on the Pittsburgh Pirates extends far beyond his pitching dominance. Skenes, the reigning National League Cy Young Award winner, has become a respected veteran leader within the Pirates' clubhouse, providing input on personnel decisions, coaching hires, and team operations. His offseason training regimen has also inspired several of his younger teammates to join him, fostering camaraderie and a shared commitment to excellence.

Why it matters

Skenes' leadership and influence within the Pirates organization highlights the unique role that elite players can have in shaping a team's culture and direction, beyond just their on-field performance. As the Pirates aim to return to the playoffs, Skenes' voice and example will be crucial in guiding the team's younger players and setting the tone for the entire organization.

The details

At just 23 years old, Skenes has already established himself as a team leader, volunteering to assist the front office in recruiting free agents and providing input on coaching hires. He has also invited several of his teammates to join him at his offseason training facility in North Palm Beach, where they work together to challenge and improve each other. This group includes players like Hunter Barco, Jared Jones, and Carmen Mlodzinski, who have all praised Skenes' work ethic and mentorship.

  • Skenes will take the mound for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic semifinals on Sunday, March 19, 2026.
  • Skenes volunteered his services to the Pirates' front office this offseason to assist in recruiting free agents.

The players

Paul Skenes

The 23-year-old Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher and reigning National League Cy Young Award winner, who has become a respected veteran leader within the organization.

Ben Cherington

The general manager of the Pittsburgh Pirates, who has welcomed Skenes' input on personnel decisions and team operations.

Don Kelly

The manager of the Pittsburgh Pirates, who values Skenes' thoughts on scheduling and team operations.

Hunter Barco

A 25-year-old Pirates pitcher who regularly trained with Skenes at his offseason facility in North Palm Beach.

Carmen Mlodzinski

A Pirates pitcher who has witnessed Skenes' leadership and maturity, despite his young age.

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What they’re saying

“Guys are chasing him, striving to do what he does.”

— Bubba Chandler, Pirates Pitcher

“He's the guy. People follow that. And what better person to have be the guy?”

— Mitch Keller, Pirates Pitcher

“He's a workhorse on and off the field. The only thing he cares about is winning baseball games. That's a good thing to bring into the clubhouse.”

— Hunter Barco, Pirates Pitcher

“He's a full-on vet.”

— Carmen Mlodzinski, Pirates Pitcher

What’s next

The Pirates will be closely watching Skenes' performance in the World Baseball Classic semifinals, as his success on the national stage could further elevate his profile and influence within the organization.

The takeaway

Paul Skenes' impact on the Pittsburgh Pirates extends far beyond his dominant pitching, as the 23-year-old ace has become a respected veteran leader who is shaping the team's culture and direction through his work ethic, mentorship, and input on key organizational decisions.