The Pittsburgh Pirates will shut down the first overall pick of the 2023 MLB Draft, Paul Skenes, for the rest of the season, as they placed him on the development list. Skenes recently made a stir for being in a relationship with popular college athlete Olivia Dunne.
The reason for Skene's shut down is not due to injury concerns but to promote the pitcher's development as he looks to make his major league debut in 2024.
Pirates general manager Ben Cherington said that they are excited and encouraged by the positive things Skenes has accomplished in his short time in the Pirates organization.
The 49-year-old executive also added that the 21-year-old checked all the boxes the Pirates aimed for him during the 2023 season.
"The goal now is to focus on a complete off-season in preparation for his first full professional year in 2024," Cherington said.
Read more: Arizona Diamondback to Promote Standout Shortstop Prospect Jordan Lawlar for Playoff Push
Olivia Dunne spotted at Skenes' games
LSU gymnast and social media personality Olivia Dunne has been spotted in the minor league games of Skenes with both the Single-A Bradenton Marauders and the Double-A Altoona Curve last month.
Skenes previously revealed that he is in a relationship with the popular 20-year-old college athlete.
Dunne is the highest-paid female college athlete in terms of name, image, and likeness (NIL) earnings with $3.2 million, which is also third overall after USC freshman guard Bronny James at $6.1 million and Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders at $3.8 million.
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