The evolving criteria for the NL Cy Young Award have moved beyond simply considering win-loss records, a change benefiting Pittsburgh Pirates ace Paul Skenes. At 23 years old, Skenes remains with the Pirates despite offseason trade rumors and the club‘s midseason sales, cementing his role as a cornerstone for Pittsburgh’s pitching staff. His remarkable skill set, featuring a high-velocity fastball combined with an exceptional variety of secondary pitches and precise command, has placed him in a league of his own among current MLB pitchers.

Heading into the All-Star break, Skenes posted an impressive 2.01 ERA, a standout mark in today’s offensive-heavy environment. Since then, he has elevated his performance further, lowering his ERA to an outstanding 1.83. This recent achievement is highlighted by his dominance in July, where he recorded a stunning 0.67 ERA. This monthly figure ranks among the top five most dominant performances in the Pirates’ franchise history dating back to 1920.

A Closer Look at Skenes’ Rare Pitching Dominance Amid Summer Challenges

July typically presents a challenge for pitchers as hitters find their rhythm and pitching staffs face the strain of a long season, often leading to declining numbers. However, Skenes has defied this trend by improving over the summer, showcasing strength and resilience as other pitchers tend to falter. His 2.39 ERA in April, the highest monthly figure for him this season, contrasts sharply with his increasingly dominant performances as the year progresses.

This trend of improving results contrasts with the expected trajectory for most hurlers, who usually see diminished effectiveness under the summer sun. Skenes’ ability to elevate his game this late in the season underscores why he is considered the clear front-runner for the 2025 NL Cy Young Award. His July dominance represents more than just a strong stretch—it stands as a defining statement in a standout campaign.

Implications of Skenes’ Performance for the Pirates and the NL Cy Young Race

While it may be unrealistic to predict that Skenes will sustain sub-1.00 ERA levels through the rest of the season, his remarkable July performance serves as a powerful highlight in his award campaign. As the season continues, other top NL pitchers face an uphill battle to keep pace with his level of excellence, effectively placing them in a race for second place in the Cy Young conversation.

For the Pittsburgh Pirates, maintaining Skenes as a long-term asset will be critical, especially considering the team’s current ownership challenges and trade dynamics. His trajectory not only promises individual accolades but also offers hope for the franchise’s future pitching strength and competitive prospects.