TAMPA, Fla. — On Wednesday, Paul Skenes impressed on the mound for the Pittsburgh Pirates, despite a flurry of non-baseball-related questions post-game. The attention was due to his recent feature in GQ magazine alongside his girlfriend, social media sensation Livvy Dunne. The pitching star’s outstanding performance was highlighted by his ability to keep his composure and deliver a stellar seven innings against the Tampa Bay Rays, conceding only one unearned run on three hits. Skenes struck out six batters, issued no walks, and tallied up 102 pitches during Pittsburgh’s 4-2 victory.
Playing at Steinbrenner Field — a spring training venue for the Yankees and current temporary home for the Rays — Skenes excelled on the mound. However, he seemed less confident handling questions about his experience with GQ magazine, hinting at a lively reaction from his teammates after the magazine spread, which was published online. “I’m prepared for some good-natured teasing in the locker room,” Skenes admitted with a grin. “Before they reached out, I wasn’t even aware of GQ. Now I’m glad I participated — I think.”
Dunne, a talented gymnast from LSU, is a major presence on social media with millions of followers across platforms like TikTok and Instagram. The couple featured in the magazine’s piece were photographed in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, showcasing the early days of their romantic relationship. While Dunne has quickly ascended to fame amid the evolving college athletics landscape that embraces names, images, and likenesses, her recognition of Skenes at their first meeting was non-existent. Nevertheless, Skenes’ performance on the field — earning him National League Rookie of the Year honors and an All-Star status in a previous season — suggests he’s gaining fame in his right.
During the game, Skenes efficiently retired 21 out of 24 batters and caused 13 swings-and-misses, notably achieving seven with his fastball. Impressively, his WHIP of 0.92 is unprecedented in major league history for a pitcher’s first 25 starts. In the sixth inning, a fielding error by Isiah Kiner-Falefa allowed the Rays to close the gap to 2-1, but Skenes controlled the inning, limiting their scoring opportunities. In the seventh inning, after falling behind 3-0 against his last two batters, he tenaciously struck them out, cementing his pivotal role in breaking the Pirates’ four-game losing streak.
Manager Derek Shelton addressed Skenes’ ability to deliver under pressure, particularly noting his capacity to unleash a 100 mph pitch when needed. “That quality is rare in players,” Shelton remarked. “Paul Skenes showcases that exceptional ability and stands out because of it.”