Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes, 23, is competing for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic with a powerful motivation: honoring U.S. servicemen and women. Skenes, who attended the U.S. Air Force Academy, stated his decision stems from a belief in the country and a desire to recognize those who serve.
"We're doing it to represent the men and women that are fighting for us," Skenes told The Athletic. He emphasized that the tournament's significance is amplified by the participation of stars like Aaron Judge, making it "a lot bigger than any of us."
Last season, Skenes earned the National League Cy Young Award, recording a 1.97 ERA with 216 strikeouts in 187.2 innings pitched. He plans to make two starts in the tournament.