Kevin Gorman’s Take 5: MLB Network gives glimpse into mind of Pirates ace Paul Skenes

August 15, 2025 by Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes smiles after ending a Reds threat with a strikeout during the fourth inning on Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025, at PNC Park.

Mark DeRosa thought he got screened by Paul Skenes. When the Team USA manager called the Pittsburgh Pirates ace to pitch him on playing in the World Baseball Classic next spring, Skenes didn’t answer.