Highly-touted pitching prospect Shane Skenes is about to make his long-awaited Major League Baseball (MLB) debut, adding a new spark of excitement to the Pittsburgh Pirates' rotation. Armed with an electric fastball that consistently reaches triple digits and a devastating slider, Skenes has generated plenty of buzz during his time in the Minor Leagues.

During his stint with Triple-A Indianapolis this year, Skenes showcased his undeniable talent, boasting an impressive 0.99 ERA and recording 45 strikeouts over 27 1/3 innings. He has honed his pitching repertoire, incorporating his changeup, curveball, and his unique "splinker" (a sinker-splitter hybrid) to further enhance his arsenal.

The Pirates have been cautious in managing Skenes' workload and adjusting to the professional game. After logging 112 1/3 innings in his first two collegiate seasons with the Air Force Academy, he threw 122 2/3 frames as a junior with LSU. Unlike the typical professional rotation, Skenes followed a college routine, making one start per week. To ensure his smooth transition, the Pirates opted to gradually extend his outings with Indianapolis before giving him the green light in mid-April.

It is evident that the Pirates prioritize keeping Skenes' right arm in top condition, as his fastball has received the highest possible grade of 80 on the scouting scale by MLB Pipeline. Many have compared him to renowned pitcher Stephen Strasburg, hailing Skenes as one of the top pitching prospects in recent years. Even opposing players, such as Orioles infielder Jackson Holliday, have marveled at Skenes' raw talent, claiming he throws in the range of 110 mph.

"If he keeps throwing like that, it won't be too long until he's in the big leagues," Holliday commented after striking out against Skenes during Spring Breakout in March. His prediction has now come true.

Joining a rotation that already includes Mitch Keller, whose contract was recently extended, and rookie Jared Jones, Skenes is poised to become a crucial part of the Pirates' pitching staff for years to come. The trio, consisting of Skenes, Keller, and Jones, has the potential to form a formidable front three rotation.

Now, the time has finally arrived for Skenes to make his highly anticipated MLB debut. It is set to be one of the most eagerly awaited starts to a career in Pirates history. Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching as Skenes steps on the mound, eager to witness the rising star in action.