Paul Skenes is set to start the All-Star game, the first time since 1995 that a rookie pitcher has that honor.
It’s been even longer since a Pittsburgh player has been in that spotlight.
The last pitcher from the Pirates to start the All-Star game was Jerry Reuss in 1975, in the middle of a decade when Pittsburgh won two World Series. That’s the second-longest active drought without a pitcher starting the All-Star game. The Chicago Cubs have not had one since Claude Passeau in 1946. (The Miami Marlins have never had the starting pitcher for the National League, but they’ve only been playing since 1993.)
The longest drought in the American League belongs to the Baltimore Orioles, who have not had the All-Star starter since Steve Stone in 1980. Corbin Burnes could potentially be chosen to start this year’s edition, which takes place Tuesday night.
This stellar beginning to Skenes’ career — in 11 starts, he’s 6-0 …