Paul Skenes: Rookie Phenom Captivates Pirates Fans with Impressive Performances and Mustache

Pirates' rookie pitcher Paul Skenes continues to impress with his dominant pitching performances and iconic mustache that has become a fan favorite.

Paul Skenes, the highly touted rookie pitcher for the Pittsburgh Pirates, has taken Major League Baseball by storm with his exceptional performances and signature mustache, which has captivated the hearts of fans.

Skenes, who was selected as the No. 1 overall pick in last year's draft, has lived up to the hype, boasting a remarkable 2.25 ERA through three starts. His dominance on the mound is evident in his six no-hit innings last week, a performance that was cut short due to a high pitch count. The lanky right-hander also boasts an impressive strikeout rate of 11.8 batters per nine innings.

The Pittsburgh faithful have embraced Skenes with open arms, creating a raucous atmosphere at PNC Park during his starts. The crowd's excitement reached a fever pitch on Thursday, with fans sporting faux mustaches to emulate their beloved hurler.

One young fan, interviewed by the broadcast team, expressed his admiration for Skenes' mustache, enthusiastically declaring it his "favorite thing" about the pitcher. However, the fan couldn't resist giving a second answer: "Livvy Dunne!"

Indeed, Skenes is dating LSU gymnast Olivia Dunne, who has gained a massive following on social media and has even graced the cover of Sports Illustrated's Swimsuit Issue. The couple's relationship has drawn significant attention due to their mutual connection to LSU, where Skenes was the ace pitcher for the Tigers' College World Series-winning team last year.

Skenes himself has described their relationship as a "small world type of thing." Dunne, for her part, has enjoyed her time in Pittsburgh, frequently showing her support for Skenes on social media and cheering him on from the stands.

On Thursday, Skenes allowed only one earned run in six innings of work against the San Francisco Giants. His ERA remains low despite relievers allowing inherited runners to score in his MLB debut. Only two runners have crossed home plate with Skenes on the mound, a testament to his impressive control and resilience.

The 6'6" pitcher's rise to fame has garnered widespread attention, with fans and analysts alike marveling at his talent and charisma. Skenes' mustache has become an iconic symbol of his success, and it's safe to say that "Skenes Fever" is here to stay in Pittsburgh.