NL All-Star manager drops Skenes name as starting pitcher

PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – Torey Lovullo was not prompted, not pressured to mention his name. When the man who will decide who will start the MLB All-Star Game for the National League discussed that tough call, he mentioned only one name, Paul Skenes.

The Pirates rookie has lived up to the hype and more. He’s coming off seven, no-hit innings with 11 strikeouts against the Brewers. On the season, 6-0, 1.90 ERA in 11 starts with 89 strikeouts to 13 walks in 66.1 innings. His WHIP is 0.92 and he showed again on Thursday why he is deserving.

Lovullo is the National League manager after leading the Diamondbacks to the World Series last year. He was asked about it after the Arizona game Thursday night and said many, including family members, have suggested names of pitchers who should start the game.

A veteran of 26 MLB seasons as a player, coach and manager, Lovullo admits it’s a tough decision. It’s one that so many will be watching and he said he is going to make the best decision for the league. He also said he’s going to seek opinions, presumably of those in the league or that know the game well.

He said he is ‘very aware’ of who the options are, then only one name came to mind, the 6’6” Pirates right-hander.

“In particular, Paul Skenes, he’s come on very quickly,” Lovullo said courtesy of @AZSports (Arizona Sports). “He’s been an unbelievable addition to Major League Baseball. He’s created a lot of interest in Major League Baseball. I am going to be situationally aware of that when I make this decision.”

Seems like he’s made his decision.