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Story from MLB.com
Paul Skenes’ sensational rookie season is about to hit an even brighter spotlight: The Pirates’ young ace will start for the National League in the 2024 All-Star Game presented by Mastercard. Skenes received the news from NL manager Torey Lovullo, who surprised him during an appearance on the Dan Patrick Show on Friday
Just four rookie pitchers have started the All-Star Game, per the Elias Sports Bureau: Hideo Nomo (1995), Fernando Valenzuela (’81), Mark Fidrych (’76) and Dave Stenhouse (’62). But Skenes’ achievement is even more notable: His 11 starts would tie Fidrych for the fewest in a career entering an All-Star start (Fidrych also made two relief appearances).
The honor comes one day after Skenes’ latest stunning performance when he threw seven hitless innings in a 1-0 win over the Brewers. Skenes lowered his ERA to 1.90 with 89 strikeouts through 11 starts, the fifth-most K’s through 11 starts in MLB history since 1901.