Torey Lovullo hints at Pirates sensation Paul Skenes starting 2024 MLB All-Star Game

In his pregame news conference Thursday, Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo did not commit to naming a starting pitcher for the National League ahead of next week’s All-Star Game. He sure made it sound, though, like the nod could go to Pirates phenom Paul Skenes.

“I know this is going to go out as fast as lightning, in particular Paul Skenes, he’s come on very quickly,” Lovullo said. “He’s been an unbelievable addition to Major League Baseball. He’s created a lot of interest in Major League Baseball. I’m going to be situationally aware of that when I’m making this decision.”

As the manager of the reigning National League champion, Lovullo and his staff will coach the All-Star Game. And while Lovullo said that he is in communication with the league about lineup decisions for the game, the ultimate call rests with him.

From a star power and name recognition perspective, Skenes would be second to none among Lovullo’s options. The other starting pitchers on the team include Hunter Greene (Reds), Shota Imanaga (Cubs), Chris Sale (Braves), Ranger Suarez (Phillies), Logan Webb (Giants) and Zack Wheeler (Phillies).

Of that group, Sale is the most established major league star, with eight All-Star selections to his name. After a slew of injury-riddled years over the past half-decade, he is having an outstanding season in his first year in Atlanta, with a 2.74 ERA.

Skenes, though, would unquestionably draw more attention to the game. The No. 1 overall pick out of LSU last summer, he shot through the minor leagues to debut in early May. Since then, he has a 1.90 ERA in 12 starts. On Thursday, he struck out 11 in seven no-hit innings before being pulled at 99 pitches.

It’s not just Skenes’ numbers, either. His 100 mph fastball is electric. He’s been a name brand since dominating at one of college baseball’s biggest programs last season. Every start of his is an event unto itself in the baseball world.

All of that seems to be weighing on Lovullo’s mind.

“I haven’t made (the decision) yet,” Lovullo said. “But I want to hit it just right. I want to hit it right on the sweet spot. I’m going to take my time, ask the right questions, and the people that I trust inside the MLB offices, the people that I trust inside of my space, we’re going to try to do it just right. Major League Baseball is in a great spot.

“I want the world to watch this game. I want to make sure that I take my time before I make this decision.”