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**Updated Odds for Ex-LSU Baseball Star Paul Skenes to Win National League Cy Young Award**
The baseball world is witnessing something truly special in 2024, as former LSU phenom and current Pittsburgh Pirates ace **Paul Skenes** has not only lived up to the hype but has **skyrocketed into the National League Cy Young conversation**. Just over halfway into his rookie season, Skenes is already being mentioned alongside established superstars like **Zack Wheeler, Tyler Glasnow, and Chris Sale** in the race for the NL’s most prestigious pitching honor.
Sportsbooks have taken notice, with **updated odds** reflecting Skenes’ meteoric rise. Once considered a long shot, the flame-throwing right-hander has seen his Cy Young stock **surge into the top five** in most betting markets. Here’s why Skenes is suddenly a legitimate contender—and what could stand in his way.Since his much-anticipated MLB debut on **May 11, 2024**, Skenes has been nothing short of electric. Through his first **12 starts**, he boasts a **2.20 ERA, 0.95 WHIP, and a staggering 98 strikeouts in just 73.2 innings**. His **fastball, which regularly touches 102 mph**, has been virtually unhittable, while his **devastating slider and splinker** (a hybrid splitter-sinker) have left batters flailing.
What makes his early success even more impressive is his **command**. Unlike many young power pitchers, Skenes has shown **elite control**, walking just **1.8 batters per nine innings**—a rarity for a rookie. His **10.8 strikeouts per nine innings** rank among the NL’s best, and his **.185 batting average against** puts him in elite company.As of late July, the latest Cy Young odds from major sportsbooks have Skenes **listed anywhere from +400 to +600**, putting him firmly in the mix. Here’s how the top contenders stack up:
– **Zack Wheeler (PHI): +200** – The current favorite, Wheeler has been a model of consistency with a **2.45 ERA and 140 strikeouts**.
– **Tyler Glasnow (LAD): +350** – The Dodgers’ ace leads the NL in strikeouts (165) but has a slightly higher ERA (3.02).
– **Chris Sale (ATL): +450** – The resurgent veteran has been dominant (2.71 ERA, 12.1 K/9).
– **Paul Skenes (PIT): +550** – The rookie sensation is gaining momentum with every start.
– **Logan Webb (SF): +800** – The workhorse leads the NL in innings pitched but lacks Skenes’ strikeout upside.
*Unmatched Stuff** – His **102 mph fastball** and **wipeout secondary pitches** make him nearly unhittable when he’s on.
Narrative Appeal** – A rookie winning Cy Young would be historic—only **Fernando Valenzuela (1981) and Dwight Gooden (1985)** have done it.
*Second-Half Surge Potential** – If he maintains this pace and the Pirates stay in wild-card contention, voters may lean his way.
Innings Limit?** – The Pirates may cap his workload, costing him counting stats (wins, strikeouts).
Team Success** – Cy Young voters often reward pitchers on playoff teams; the Pirates are still fringe contenders.If Skenes keeps dominating at this rate—and **avoids a late-season fade**—he has a **real shot** at making history. The odds reflect that he’s no longer just a dark horse but a **serious threat**. Whether he can overtake Wheeler, Glasnow, and Sale remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: **Paul Skenes is must-watch TV every fifth day.**
