Paul Skenes reflects on his military background in a candid interview on 3 July 2026, linking his two‑year stint at the Air Force Academy to the discipline that helped him capture both the Rookie of the Year and Cy Young awards this season.
How did Skenes’ academy experience shape his baseball career?
Skenes explained that at the Air Force Academy, "baseball’s secondary," so every practice demanded a commitment to service and academics. He said the environment forced him to balance rigorous training with coursework, a habit that now fuels his preparation routine in Pittsburgh. The former cadet highlighted how early mornings, strict schedules, and a focus on teamwork mirrored the grind of a major‑league rotation.
What was the rivalry like with Army and Navy?
During his two years in Colorado Springs, Skenes faced the Army Black Knights and Navy Midshipmen multiple times. He recalled the Falcons posting a 5‑2 record against the other service academies, including a perfect 4‑0 run versus Army. "Whenever you play Army or Navy, you always want to beat them," he said, noting the rivalry adds an extra edge to every matchup. Former Altoona Curve catcher Derek Berg, who opposed Skenes in college, joked that the Falcons’ dominance was a relief for LSU scouts.
Why did Skenes leave the academy for LSU?
Skenes transferred to Louisiana State after his sophomore year, a move he described as a "good opportunity to get an education and play baseball at the same time" on a larger stage. At LSU, he helped the Tigers win the 2023 national championship and later became the first overall pick in the 2023 MLB draft. Berg recalled that scouts saw a "big arm and a decent hitter" in the young cadet, prompting the Tigers to act quickly.
How does his military past influence his role with the Pirates?
Now a cornerstone of the Pittsburgh Pirates’ rotation, Skenes credits his academy days for his mental toughness. He said the respect he earned from fellow service members translates to the clubhouse, where he leads by example. "You want to beat them, but you also respect what they do off the field," he noted, underscoring the balance between competition and camaraderie that defines his approach to the game.
What does Skenes say about future service‑academy matchups?
Looking ahead, Skenes expects the Pirates to face Army and Navy in spring training and hopes the rivalry will spark fan interest. He believes the games offer a chance to showcase the shared values of discipline and perseverance that both baseball and the military cherish. "It’s probably the biggest rivalry we have with other teams, but keeping it in perspective is key," he concluded.