As the MLB season approaches, Cy Young Award betting odds are making headlines. In the American League, Garrett Crochet stands out with impressive strikeout rates, though health is a concern. Framber Valdez of the Astros offers durability and consistency, making him a strong contender at +1700. Joe Ryan and Bailey Ober of the Twins are intriguing longshots with potential, especially if they can stay healthy.

In the National League, Paul Skenes is the favorite at +300, but injury risks loom. Tyler Glasnow could deliver value at +1700 if he remains healthy, while Spencer Strider's return from surgery makes him a wildcard. Spencer Schwellenbach offers great odds at +4000 and could break out with the Braves' support. These bets highlight the unpredictability of the upcoming season.

Paul Skenes showcased impressive skills during his spring training debut, striking out four batters over three innings in the Pittsburgh Pirates' 5-2 win against the Baltimore Orioles. While he allowed one run on four hits, his velocity frequently touched 99 mph, reflecting the dominance he displayed as last year's National League Rookie of the Year.

Skenes is focused on integrating new pitches, notably a cutter and a sinker, into his repertoire. He acknowledged challenges as he adjusts, particularly with pitch efficiency, noting a need to work on getting better contact. With a history of a strong rookie season, he aims to pitch deeper into games this year, a strategy supported by his manager, Derek Shelton. This year, they plan to allow him to explore pitch variations and increase volume, indicating a significant step forward in his development.

Paul Skenes made a strong impression in his 2025 spring training debut, striking out four batters in three innings while allowing just one run and touching 99 mph on the radar gun. This performance came during the Pittsburgh Pirates' 5-2 victory over the Baltimore Orioles. Skenes showcased new pitches, including a cutter and a sinker, as he works to enhance his pitching arsenal. Manager Derek Shelton noted Skenes' progression compared to last year's limited spring training workload, indicating a more substantial role this season.

Although Skenes' first inning was marked by a high pitch count of 23, he remains focused on pitching efficiently. Last season, he finished with a remarkable 1.96 ERA and 170 strikeouts in 133 innings, establishing himself as an ace for the Pirates. As he refines his new pitches, Skenes is set to have a significant impact on the Pirates' rotation this season.

Paul Skenes, the Pittsburgh Pirates' right-hander, made a notable entrance in the Grapefruit League, demonstrating his evolving skill set. The 22-year-old showcased a newly developed cutter and a two-seam fastball alongside his impressive four-seam fastball, which helped him strike out four batters in three innings against the Baltimore Orioles. Skenes, who had an outstanding 2024 season with an 11-3 record and a 1.96 ERA, aims to build on his success from winning the NL Rookie of the Year award.

After leading LSU to the College World Series title and being selected first overall in the 2023 draft, Skenes expressed optimism about his new pitches, indicating they will enhance his performance on the mound. His ability to mix pitches effectively could be crucial for the Pirates as they look to improve their standing in the upcoming season.

Paul Skenes, the Pittsburgh Pirates' promising pitcher, is set to make his spring training debut against the Baltimore Orioles, after a previous start was postponed due to weather. Entering the 2025 season, Skenes aims to build on a stellar rookie year where he clinched the National League Rookie of the Year Award and finished third in the Cy Young voting despite starting late in the season. His remarkable statistics include an 11-3 record and a 1.96 ERA with a franchise-record 170 strikeouts as a rookie.

Skenes' performance puts him in the historical context of potential dual award winners, with his sights set on following in the footsteps of legends like Fernando Valenzuela. His remarkable debut season has made the upcoming spring training start one of the most anticipated events for Pirates fans and fantasy baseball enthusiasts alike.