Paul Skenes shines for Team USA in WBC semifinal

The NL Cy Young winner allowed one run over 4 1/3 innings against a stacked Dominican Republic lineup.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 11:08am

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In front of his family and former Air Force teammates, 23-year-old pitcher Paul Skenes delivered a standout performance for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic semifinal against the Dominican Republic. Despite facing a lineup stacked with MLB superstars like Juan Soto and Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Skenes allowed just one run over 4 1/3 innings to help lead Team USA to a 2-1 victory.

Why it matters

Skenes, the No. 1 overall pick just three years ago, is viewed as a pitching pillar for Team USA. His ability to thrive under the pressure of the high-stakes WBC semifinal against an offensive powerhouse like the Dominican Republic showcases his poise and talent, cementing his status as one of baseball's rising young stars.

The details

Skenes hit two batters and escaped a bases-loaded jam in the fourth inning, but ultimately limited the Dominican Republic to just one run on a two-strike, two-out homer by Junior Caminero in the second. He leaned on his defense, including a key double play in the fifth inning, to keep the game close before handing it over to the bullpen.

  • Skenes spent two years as a pitcher and catcher at the United States Air Force Academy before transferring to LSU.
  • Skenes was the No. 1 overall pick in the baseball draft just three years ago.
  • Skenes is set to turn 24 years old on May 29.

The players

Paul Skenes

A 23-year-old pitcher for Team USA and the reigning NL Cy Young Award winner.

Craig Skenes

Paul Skenes' father, who was in attendance and marveled at his son's performance.

Chase Spencer

A former teammate of Paul Skenes at the United States Air Force Academy, now in pilot training in Daytona Beach, Florida.

Aaron Reyes

Another former teammate of Paul Skenes at the United States Air Force Academy, now in pilot training in Daytona Beach, Florida.

Albert Pujols

The manager of the Dominican Republic team, who expressed confidence in his lineup's ability to handle Skenes.

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What they’re saying

“I think that's what the academy did for him. At the end of it all, there's so much mental growth and stability that comes from that. It shows every day on the field.”

— Chase Spencer, Former teammate at Air Force Academy

“I don't know if 'worried' is the right word. I'm nervous every time he pitches. In fact, I'm more nervous when he pitches than when he ever hit and played in the field. I don't know why.”

— Craig Skenes, Paul Skenes' father

“Special presence, special man.”

— Mark DeRosa, Team USA manager

What’s next

The winner of the Italy-Venezuela semifinal will face Team USA in the WBC championship game on Tuesday.

The takeaway

Paul Skenes' dominant performance against the star-studded Dominican Republic lineup in the WBC semifinal showcases his poise, talent, and status as one of baseball's rising young aces. His ability to thrive under the pressure of the high-stakes tournament further solidifies his reputation as a 'special presence' on the mound.