Pirates' Paul Skenes Poised for Dominant World Baseball Classic

Four bold predictions for the rising MLB star's performance in the 2026 tournament

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Paul Skenes, the Pittsburgh Pirates' young ace, is set to take the mound for Team USA in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. With his electric stuff and track record of dominance, Skenes is poised to make a major impact on the international stage. This article outlines four bold predictions for Skenes' performance in the tournament, including the possibility of him posting the lowest ERA among qualifying starters, recording a double-digit strikeout game, emerging as Team USA's de facto ace, and even making a legitimate push for MVP honors.

Why it matters

Skenes' inclusion on the Team USA roster is a testament to his rapid rise to stardom in Major League Baseball. As one of the most dominant pitchers in the game, his performance in the World Baseball Classic could have significant implications for both his personal legacy and the United States' chances of winning the tournament.

The details

At just 23 years old, Skenes has already established himself as one of the most dominant pitchers in baseball. After a standout college career at LSU, he burst onto the scene in the majors, winning the 2024 NL Rookie of the Year award with the Pittsburgh Pirates and then capturing the 2025 NL Cy Young Award. Skenes' combination of elite velocity, swing-and-miss stuff, and pinpoint command make him a nightmare for opposing hitters, and those weapons could prove especially effective in the shorter format of the World Baseball Classic.

  • Skenes is set to make his first start for Team USA on Friday, March 8, 2026 against Brazil.
  • The 2026 World Baseball Classic championship game is scheduled for Sunday, March 23, 2026.

The players

Paul Skenes

A 23-year-old right-handed pitcher for the Pittsburgh Pirates who is considered one of the most dominant pitchers in Major League Baseball. Skenes won the 2024 NL Rookie of the Year award and the 2025 NL Cy Young Award.

Team USA

The United States national baseball team that will be competing in the 2026 World Baseball Classic.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Team USA will open the 2026 World Baseball Classic against Brazil on Friday, March 8, 2026. All eyes will be on Paul Skenes as he takes the mound for the Americans in their first game of the tournament.

The takeaway

Paul Skenes' inclusion on the Team USA roster for the 2026 World Baseball Classic is a testament to his rapid rise to stardom in Major League Baseball. With his electric stuff and track record of dominance, Skenes is poised to make a major impact on the international stage and could play a pivotal role in the United States' quest for a WBC championship.