Skenes swaps jerseys with TJ Watt

PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – Nearly a couple of decades ago, Pirates Rookie of the Year Jason Bay made a visit over to the Steelers facility. Nothing like the welcome for rookie pitcher Paul Skenes at Steelers practice on Thursday.

Skenes was greeted by the biggest names including TJ Watt, Cam Heyward, Pat Freiermuth, both quarterbacks Justin Fields and Russell Wilson. He posed for pictures with a few players along with defensive line coach Karl Dunbar, who proudly said he was an LSU graduate. Of course, Skenes helped LSU win the baseball national championship last year.

He swapped jerseys with Watt including TJ’s game worn uniform from last week.

Skenes also met Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin.

“Congrats on your success, keep it hot,” Tomlin said to Skenes via the Pirates social media accounts. “Keep living it.”

“All the best to you, man. Big fan, much respect. I love your professional approach that I hear about on days that you work. How you go to the stadium. Love it. Respect it.”

Skenes turned with a smile after Tomlin’s remarks. It was a genuine sign of respect between a Pirates star and several NFL stars.