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6 months ago
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Pittsburgh Pirates rookie Paul Skenes has impressed again in the major leagues after throwing six no-hit innings against the Chicago Cubs.
Skenes, who was selected by Pittsburgh with the first overall pick at last year's MLB Draft, showed glimpses of his pitching quality in recent outings against Chicago, having struck out seven and walked two across four-plus innings at PNC Park last Saturday.
And less than a week later, the 21-year-old put on a masterclass up against the same opposition at Wrigley Field; recording six hitless innings, 11 strikeouts and 100 pitches - 66 percent of which were strikes.
His 100th and final pitch of the day was also clocked at a staggering 100mph.
As well as being one of the brightest prospects in MLB, Skenes is also the boyfriend of TikTok and LSU gymnastics sensation Olivia Dunne.
Pirates rookie Paul Skenes impressed again after throwing six hitless innings vs the Cubs
Skenes put on a masterclass, also recording 11 strikeouts and 100 pitches - 66 percent of which were strikes
As well as being one of the brightest prospects in MLB, Skenes is also the boyfriend of TikTok and LSU gymnastics sensation Olivia Dunne
Dunne was at PNC Park for her man's major-league debut for the Pirates last weekend, which saw him get off to a solid start against the Cubs.
'I had some nerves creep in at first, but I've kind of channeled it into excitement rather than nerves, and I just have the most confidence in him ever,' she began. 'I just trust in him, and what he's put in, and I'm just so excited.
'It's amazing, the support here is awesome. Pittsburgh has been so welcoming. Just seeing people wearing Air Force stuff, LSU stuff, Skenes jerseys.'
Skenes helped LSU win the national championship before agreeing to a contract with the Pirates that included a $9.2million signing bonus.
He also had a 0.99 ERA in seven starts with Triple-A Indianapolis when he was brought up by the Pirates last weekend.
The 6ft 6ins pitcher has been under the microscope since long before his call-up to the major leagues, thanks to his performances on the mound - and his relationship with Dunne, who has eight million followers on TikTok.
She recently called for her boyfriend to be brought up to MLB by Pittsburgh, saying: 'I have no clue (when his MLB debut will fall). I hope soon! I'm starting to get all my merch ready. I have my outfits picked out.'
English (US)