“It’s a symbol of the fact that the game just continues to get younger”- MLB Boss Rob Manfred thinks Paul Skenes’ All-Star Start is a win for Baseball
Since assuming office as MLB commissioner in early 2015, Rob Manfred's top priority has been broadening baseball's appeal. On Tuesday, the league's top executive was able to experience something that he believes did just that.
In the bottom of the first inning, Pirates rookie Paul Skenes took to the mound. The 22 year-old became the fifth rookie pitcher in history to start an All-Star Game, and the first arm to do so in 29 years. In an interview with MLB Network prior to the game, Manfred extolled the significance of Skenes' start, saying "it's a symbol of the fact that the game just continues to get younger."
""It's a symbol of the fact that the game just continues to get younger." Rob Manfred on Paul Skenes getting the start in last night's #AllStarGame" - MLB Network Radio on Xirius XM
The Pittsburgh Pirates ace appeared in just one inning, allowing a walk to Juan Soto and no hits. While not exactly a landmark appearance, Rob Manfred knows that the publicity from a young, exceptionally talented pitcher like Skenes is bound to provoke increased interest.
Over his decade as MLB's boss Manfred has overseen a number of implementations that have, for better or worse, changed the game. Prior to the 2023 season, Manfred enacted restrictions of defensive shifts, larger bases, and the notorious pitch clock. All of these measures were designed to increase offense to draw in additional spectators and sponsorships.
"Paul Skenes takes the mound for the National League. #LetsGoBucs #AllStarGame" - SkenesMuse
Additionally, Manfred oversaw an increase in MLB's involvement in the World Baseball Classic in an effort to expand the game's international appeal. The latest tournament in 2023 saw a record-number of international viewers tune in to watch Shohei Ohtani strike out his Los Angeles Angels teammate Mike Trout to win the tournament.
Rob Manfred catches heat for All-Star Game jerseys
Although the game was a spectacle, and was decided by a two-run home run from Jarren Duran of the Boston Red Sox, not everything went off without a hitch. Several fans commented on the team jerseys, claiming a preference for teams to compete in their individual team outfits.
In response to the criticisms, Manfred said that “There will be conversations,and that I’m aware of the sentiment.” Regardless, Manfred is likely correct about the fact that having Paul Skenes make the start was one of the biggest victories at the 94th MLB All-Star Game.