The Record Breaking Won't Stop: Paul Skenes Becomes The Fastest Pitcher Since Kerry Wood To Record 100 Career Strikeouts

SI.com:

Technically the fastest guy this century to get to 100 strikeouts as it happened in the 3rd inning of his 13th start whereas Tanaka needed the 7th inning of his 13th. So while we're still splitting hairs, it's still important to recognize that he's the fastest pitcher since Kerry Wood to notch 100 career strikeouts. 

In my neck of the woods, that's sacred, hallowed ground

SI.com - When told of the milestone, Skenes acknowledged that it was "cool."

"It's pretty cool,” Skenes told MLB.com.

Which is exactly how you'd react if you had (a) some form of this conversation nearly every start and (b) Livvy Dunne waiting in the parking lot for you afterward. Pretty cool as I get the fuck out of here thank you. 

Some other notable things Paul Skenes

- The Pirates have a 10 game swing (4-games under to 6-games over) since Skenes made his debut 

- He should start against the Dodgers in two Sundays, which would be outstanding 

- Last night was the first time in 10 starts that he did not strikeout at least 7-hitters. Only 6

- He has the 5th lowest ERA (1.90) through the first 13 starts of any pitcher since 1934 

- 9 of the Pirates' next 12 league games come against the Padres and Diamondbacks: 

- Hard to imagine they're not picking up more steam. The best young arm in the world and he's carrying himself like a seasoned veteran vs. being a complete jagoff. That has to be worth something in the clubhouse when you see established veterans struggle like Bednar and Gonzalez. Blah blah blah. Skenes is the right presence to keep the momentum rolling despite his inexperience. That's the point. 

- Obligatory Paul Skenes statcast highlights

- Just gotta work on that change-up said every pitching coach, ever

- Crazy enough. In the history of baseball, through the first 13 career starts, Paul Skene's is 2nd-worst ALL TIME with 8 home runs allowed. More surprising is that the total is 9. Feels like that would be a lot more, which will surely be the case when White Sox righty Drew Thorpe makes his 13th start. He's at 7 home runs surrendered now through just 8 starts. So keep an eye peeled for that guy breaking a pathetic record. 

- Otherwise good luck to your shitty baseball team as they chase down the elusive 7th playoff spot. Kinda sucks knowing Paul Skenes is standing in your way 

PS - jackpot

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