In a recent episode of the "Madden Monday" podcast, sports commentator Mark Madden advocated for Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes to be named the starter for the upcoming Major League Baseball All-Star Game. Madden argued that while the selection process for the All-Star game has evolved to prioritize entertainment value, Skenes' exceptional performance this season justifies his inclusion as a starter.

Since making his debut on May 11, Skenes has quickly made a name for himself in the league. The rookie has demonstrated impressive statistics, ranking third in MLB for earned run average (ERA) at 2.12 and total strikeouts with 78. Additionally, Skenes sits fifth in strikeouts per 9.0 innings at 11.83 and boasts an undefeated record of 5-0 in his first 10 starts. Notably, he has not left a game with his team trailing this season.

Madden emphasized the potential entertainment value of a matchup between Skenes and New York Yankees' star outfielder Aaron Judge, who was voted into the American League starting lineup. Judge currently leads the AL in home runs (32) and runs batted in (83) and ranks fourth in batting average (.308). The prospect of witnessing Skenes face Judge on a national stage during the All-Star Game was described by Madden as the top matchup of the event.

While Skenes does not necessarily need to start to make this matchup happen, Madden advocated for his presence from the beginning, harking back to the tradition of the All-Star Game when starting pitchers would typically go three innings. Madden argued that starting Skenes would add more significance to the game, defying the current trend of using oversized rosters to ensure everyone gets playing time.

In support of his case, Madden referred to the attention garnered by Skenes' previous matchup against National League All-Star Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers. The duo's encounter had generated considerable buzz and captured the imagination of baseball fans nationwide.

As the All-Star Game approaches, the decision on who will start for the National League ultimately lies with NL manager Torey Lovullo. With Skenes' impressive performance and the potential for an electrifying matchup against Aaron Judge, many fans and commentators argue that the rookie pitcher deserves to take the mound as the starting pitcher for the National League team.

In addition to his All-Star selection, Bryan Reynolds of the Pittsburgh Pirates also made the cut, bringing further excitement for the team and its fans. However, there was disappointment as pitcher Mitch Keller was left off the roster. The Pittsburgh Pirates' recent performance against the New York Mets was also discussed during the podcast, along with offseason moves by the Penguins and the ongoing quarterback situation for the Steelers.

There is no doubt that Paul Skenes has made an impact in his short time in the majors. His exceptional numbers and the potential for a thrilling matchup with Aaron Judge have fueled the call for Skenes to take center stage as the starter in the MLB All-Star Game. The decision now rests with Manager Lovullo, who will determine whether Skenes gets the opportunity to shine on this grand stage.