Paul Skenes has already taken a massive leap in the big leagues. Skenes had a great debut in 2024, and there is no better way to top it off than by winning the NL Rookie Award. It’s safe to say that the Pittsburgh Pirates have found their ace.
On the other hand, Luis Gil won the 2024 AL Rookie Award. Gil had an exceptional season for the New York Yankees and will play a crucial role in the upcoming season. While Skenes and Gil worked their way through, some MLB fans believe that Skenes did not deserve it. Fans took to social media and reacted to the same. Several think that Jackson Merrill deserved to win the NL Rookie Award.
Behind the Skenes with the 2024 NL Rookie of the Year pic.twitter.com/XOHRVMKGhT
— MLB (@MLB) November 19, 2024
Here’s a look at some of the fan reactions on X.
“Merrill Got Robbed, but not a surprise San Diego always gets hated on,” one fan wrote.
Merrill Got Robbed
— German Benitez (@Yayo756C) November 19, 2024
But not a surprise San Diego always gets hated on
“He knows he shouldn’t have won. Merrill was robbed, but expect no less from the @MLB and media collusion,” another fan responded.
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He knows he shouldn’t have won. Merrill was robbed, but expect no less from the @MLB and media collusion.
— Jurickson Profar fan club (@SDPadsFanTapls) November 19, 2024
“Jackson in San Diego should have won,” one fan chipped in.
Jackson in San Diego should have won
— BetYaLife (@LoveSports101) November 19, 2024
“Even HE knows that Merrill should have won! Total BS and east coast bias,” another fan reacted.
Even HE knows that Merrill should have won! Total BS and east coast bias.
— Scott Lindeen (@SLindeen30) November 19, 2024
Not all fans believed that Jackson Merrill deserved the award. Some fans supported Paul Skenes and congratulated him.
“Very well deserved!” one fan wrote.
Very well deserved!
— Ribz of Tik Tok (@ribzoftiktok) November 18, 2024
Absolutely thrilled for Paul Skenes! His hard work and dedication have truly paid off. What an incredible achievement for such a promising talent! 👏🎉
— SEEMAN💫TVK (@seeman8320) November 18, 2024
Her earned it. pic.twitter.com/JqSF2ovaf8
— Brett Moulton (@brettmoulton24) November 18, 2024
Paul Skenes’ Excited For The Next Season With The Pirates
Paul Skenes is excited for the next season as he’s ready to embark on his second year with the Pirates. Skenes was Pittsburgh’s No. 1 draft pick. His 2024 record was incredible, and he helped the team win several crucial games.
Skenes held an 11-3 record with a strong 1.96 ERA. He recorded 170 strikeouts and had a spectacular 0.95 WHIP. The Pirates will look forward to their star pitcher in 2025. Skenes also stated that he has a personal connection with fans in Pittsburgh.
The Pirates will try to add a few players to their roster. Paul Skenes is expected to take the lead in the starting rotation. After the results of the NL and AL Rookie of the Year Awards, the free agency market is expected to get heated up. Juan Soto remains the top agent, and the Yankees are gaining ground in striking a deal.
Also Read: Paul Skenes Reveals That Shota Imanaga Recorded A ‘No-Hitter’ Against The Pirates After Showing Him How He Gripped His Fastball
