Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes expressed his deep pride in representing Team USA at the World Baseball Classic, stating, "I love America." Skenes, who initially attended the Air Force Academy with intentions of serving, views his participation as a close second to military service.
He is also dedicating his season to a charitable cause, pledging $100 per strikeout to the Gary Sinise Foundation, which supports military, veterans, and first responders.
Skenes, the reigning National League Cy Young Award winner, emphasized that his participation is a tribute to American service members.
"We’re doing it to represent the men and women that are fighting for us, along with many other things that make this country the greatest country in the world," Skenes stated.