The current state of Major League Baseball's starting pitchers is uncharacteristically weak, with no pitcher exceeding 230 strikeouts last season, a notable decline from previous years. Paul Skenes from the Pittsburgh Pirates stands out with an average fastball speed of 98.8 mph, ranking first in ERA but facing injury risks. Tarik Skubal, excelling in multiple pitching metrics, may lack offensive support. Zack Wheeler remains a consistent choice, though his strikeout rate is moderate. Chris Sale, a former Cy Young winner, poses injury concerns as he ages. Dark horse candidates include Blake Snell and Garrett Crochet, both capable of leading in strikeouts but plagued by inconsistencies. Lastly, Jacob deGrom's historical excellence contrasts with recent injury struggles.

As fantasy baseball enthusiasts prepare for the 2025 season, the pitching landscape is looking exceptionally promising. Notably, seven to eight of the top prospects are expected to debut in the majors this year. Andrew Painter leads the pack with his impressive arsenal and Cy Young potential. Jackson Jobe follows closely, showcasing his remarkable command and a slider regarded as the best among prospects.

Noah Schultz, the top left-handed pitching prospect, possesses a formidable fastball and strong strikeout rate, while Bubba Chandler is making a name for himself with a solid 2024 performance. Young talents like Travis Sykora and Alejandro Rosario are also gaining attention, reflecting the depth and excitement surrounding this year's pitching prospects.

As the Pittsburgh Pirates gear up for the 2025 season, all eyes are on Paul Skenes, who is expected to build on a remarkable rookie year. After a stunning debut where he achieved a 1.96 ERA with 170 strikeouts in just 133 innings, comparisons to legendary pitchers are already being drawn. Former MLB pitcher Ron Darling notes Skenes' potential to replicate the success of Dwight "Doc" Gooden, who won both Rookie of the Year and the Cy Young in his first two seasons.

Skenes’ exceptional skills on the mound, coupled with his impressive stats, suggest a bright future. Darling believes that Skenes possesses the necessary traits—physical prowess and competitive spirit—to turn in another historic performance. If Skenes were to clinch the Cy Young Award in the upcoming season, he would become the first Pirates pitcher to achieve this feat since Doug Drabek in 1990.

The pressure mounts for former No. 1 overall picks in baseball, especially for the Pittsburgh Pirates, who have seen both Paul Skenes and Henry Davis in recent seasons. Skenes, the 2023 pick, excelled, earning the NL Rookie of the Year and a third-place finish in the Cy Young voting. Conversely, Davis, the 2021 pick, has struggled with a .191 average in 99 MLB games. Manager Derek Shelton remains optimistic about Davis, highlighting the need for patience as he transitions from a successful minor league career with a .290 average to a more challenging major league environment.

As the Pirates prepare for the 2025 season, both Skenes and Davis will be pivotal to the franchise's future. The emergence of Joey Bart and returning Endy Rodríguez complicates Davis's path, necessitating consistent at-bats for development. Shelton believes that with time and the right adjustments, Davis can become the player they envisioned when drafting him. Spring training will be crucial for him to showcase his potential and secure a role within the team's plans.

Adam Frazier's reunion with the Pittsburgh Pirates comes at a pivotal moment, highlighted by the emergence of Paul Skenes as a premier pitching talent. Frazier recently faced Skenes during Spring Training, emphasizing the competitive edge Skenes brings to the team, enhancing the performance of his teammates. Having a solid track record with a .283 batting average and 39 home runs during his initial Pirates tenure, Frazier's experience will be essential as Skenes transitions into a leading role, having posted a remarkable 1.96 ERA and striking out 170 batters in his rookie season.

Skenes, who won the NL Rookie of the Year and was third in the Cy Young voting, is already setting records and raising the expectations for the Pirates' pitching staff. His ability to perform against top competition is evident, and Frazier believes that Skenes will elicit peak performances from his teammates. As the Pirates look ahead to 2025, the combination of Frazier's seasoned approach and Skenes' dynamic presence sets a promising tone for the franchise.