In just 10 months, Paul Skenes transformed from the first overall draft pick to a major league pitcher, known for his ability to dominate and pitch deep into games, reminiscent of previous generations.

On Monday night, Skenes’ excellence was recognized as he received the National League Rookie of the Year award.

Skenes won against San Diego Padres center fielder Jackson Merrill, who had a standout year, making a strong case for the Padres’ first Rookie of the Year since 1987. Skenes amassed 23 out of 30 first-place votes, finishing with a total of 133 points compared to Merrill’s 104. Milwaukee Brewers’ Jackson Chourio came in third.

In the American League, New York Yankees’ right-hander Luis Gil claimed the Rookie of the Year award in a closely contested race, garnering 15 first-place votes and narrowly surpassing Baltimore Orioles outfielder Colton Cowser, who received 13. Gil’s final score was 106 to 101, marking one of the tightest contests since the award format changed in 1980.

At just 22 years old, Skenes stands out in a time when pitching relies more on specialization; he’s a rarity as a starter known for going deep into games. With his fastball reaching 100 mph, along with a powerful “splinker” and effective slider, he swiftly rose from winning a national title at LSU to being the top pick by the Pirates and a feared power pitcher in MLB.

Skenes racked up an 11-3 record and a 1.96 ERA in 23 starts, striking out 170 batters over 133 innings. He made a significant impact in just his second start, throwing six no-hit innings and striking out 11 at Wrigley Field, setting off a streak of 12 starts where he recorded a 1.64 ERA and kept the opposition to two or fewer runs in 11 instances.

This impressive performance earned him a spot in July’s All-Star Game, and he finished the season strong, allowing only one earned run in 24 innings pitched in September.

Skenes was first called up from the minors on May 11, a month and a half into the Pirates’ season. However, his 22 outstanding starts were convincing enough for voters, making him the Pirates’ second Rookie of the Year ever, following Jason Bay’s victory in 2004.

As the 2025 season approaches, Skenes is anticipated to be a key player for the Pirates from Opening Day, likely earning a starting role. He aims to increase his starts from 22 to over 30 and is targeting approximately 200 innings pitched.

Additionally, Skenes is a finalist for the NL Cy Young. Although he may face tough competition from Atlanta’s Chris Sale and Philadelphia’s Zack Wheeler for the award, he is already excited about the possibilities of a full season next year.

“It’s going to be a unique challenge, and it starts now,” he said in a conference call following his rookie award win. “The offseason is moving quickly, and I’m eager for spring training.”

“The key will be proving myself throughout the entire season next year.”

On the other hand, 26-year-old Gil had a remarkable comeback, winning 15 games and achieving a 3.50 ERA after missing the whole 2023 season due to Tommy John surgery. He is the first Yankee to take home the Rookie of the Year award since Aaron Judge in 2017. Cowser contributed 24 home runs with a .768 OPS while showcasing impressive defense in left field for the Orioles. Austin Wells from New York came in third, while relievers Cade Smith of Cleveland and Oakland’s Mason Miller each received a first-place vote.