Coming off an MLB season that saw him named an MLB All-Star for the second time in his two-year career and also notch his first NL Cy Young Award, Paul Skenes took the bump for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic.
In the team's third game of pool play, the United States faced Mexico on Monday, seeking its first win against them since 2006. As he is with the Pittsburgh Pirates, Skenes was as efficient and dominant as they come. He tossed four innings before being pulled, giving up just one hit and striking out seven with the Stars and Stripes leading 5-0.
Mexico at Daikin Park.
United States pitcher Paul Skenes (30) reacts.
In addition to putting Team USA in a good position to go 3-0 in pool play, Skenes also set a U.S. record for strikeouts, according to ESPN Insights.
"Paul Skenes delivered the most strikeouts (7) by any U.S. pitcher over the last three World Baseball Classics 👏," wrote ESPN Insights on X.
Unlike the Pirates, who struggle to give him run support, Skenes was given a boost by a two-run home run by New York Yankees slugger Aaron Judge in the third inning. Boston Red Sox youngster Roman Anthony also came through with a three-run home run a few hitters later.
The U.S. will play Italy on Tuesday, March 10, who is coming off a 7-4 win against Great Britain, who has since been eliminated.
