2024 Topps NOW #739 ⭐ Paul Skenes RC (PR-5,819)
This card memorializes another milestone set by Paul Skenes during his rookie year, exactly two years ago, today!
On September 22, 2024, Paul Skenes achieved multiple milestones and records during his start against the Cincinnati Reds:
Modern Era MLB Record: By earning his 11th win of the season after throwing five scoreless innings with nine strikeouts, Skenes became the first pitcher in MLB's Modern Era (since 1900) to record 150+ strikeouts and hold an ERA under 2.00 through his first 22 career games.
Historic Franchise Strikeout Consistency: He recorded his 16th game of the season with seven or more strikeouts, surpassing Larry McWilliams (1983) for the seventh-most such games by a Pirates starting pitcher in a single season.
First 21-Game Benchmark: This performance also officially locked him in as the first pitcher in MLB history to post a sub-2.20 ERA and 150-plus strikeouts over their first 21 career games.
