Paul Skenes Makes MLB Debut with Girlfriend Olivia Dunne in Attendance

Top prospect Paul Skenes made his MLB debut with the Pittsburgh Pirates on Saturday, with his girlfriend, LSU gymnast and social media star Olivia Dunne, in the stands cheering him on.

Paul Skenes, the first overall pick in the 2023 MLB Draft, made his major league debut with the Pittsburgh Pirates on Saturday, with his girlfriend, LSU gymnast and social media star Olivia Dunne, cheering him on from a suite at PNC Park.

Skenes' debut was a quick one, as he was called up to the Pirates just days after dominating at Triple-A. He had a 0.99 ERA over his first seven starts, giving up just 17 hits and striking out 45 batters.

Skenes' loved ones, including Dunne, were in attendance to witness his historic moment. Dunne spoke to the Pirates' broadcast during the bottom of the third inning, expressing her excitement and pride in her boyfriend.

"I have so many amazing memories with him, but I know how hard he's worked for this moment," Dunne said. "All the hours, I just know what a hard worker he is. This is probably one of my favorite moments I've ever seen. Seriously, there is nothing that can top this. I'm just so proud."

Dunne and Skenes were reportedly napping together when they received the call that Skenes was being called up. They quickly packed up and hit the road to Pittsburgh.

"That's the quickest I've ever packed in my life," Dunne said. "We just woke up from a nap. He had a few missed calls, and he got called up. And he just said, 'Let's pack,' and we hit the road. It was so exciting."

Skenes was electric in his debut, striking out the first two batters he faced. He topped out at 102 mph in the first inning.

Pittsburgh gave Skenes a record $9.2 million signing bonus when he inked his first contract. He is expected to be a key part of the Pirates' rotation in the years to come.

Dunne, who has over 10 million followers on Instagram, was a vocal supporter of Skenes throughout his career at LSU and has continued to be a vocal supporter since he was drafted by the Pirates.

She shared a photo of herself and Skenes on her Instagram story with the caption, "So proud of you, Paul. This is just the beginning."

Skenes' debut was a special moment for both him and his girlfriend. It was also a special moment for the Pirates, as they got a glimpse of the bright future ahead.