The buzz around Paul Skenes, the Pittsburgh Pirates’ new star pitcher, continues to grow, especially after his impressive performances on the mound. However, his second historic start drew even more attention due to the absence of his girlfriend, Olivia Dunne, sparking curious conversations about her influence on his game.
Paul Skenes, who was the first overall pick in the 2023 MLB Draft, had a remarkable debut season in the majors. His initial appearance saw him strike out seven batters in four innings against the Chicago Cubs, demonstrating why he is considered one of the top pitching prospects in baseball (MLB.com) (WFIN Local News). This performance set the stage for high expectations in his second start.
Interestingly, Skenes’ second start was shrouded in a different kind of drama. Olivia Dunne, the LSU gymnastics star and social media sensation, was notably absent. Dunne, known for her significant following and as a brand ambassador, had been a visible supporter of Skenes, providing him with emotional and mental support as he transitioned to the big leagues. Skenes himself acknowledged how Dunne helped him manage the pressures of being a professional athlete, drawing from her own experiences in the spotlight (WFIN Local News).
Without Dunne in attendance, Skenes took the mound again and delivered an even more historic performance. He pitched six innings, allowing just one run and striking out nine, leading the Pirates to a crucial victory. This stellar performance not only solidified his place in the Pirates’ rotation but also sparked playful speculation among fans and media about Dunne’s role as a potential “bad luck charm” (MLB.com) (Fox Sports).
The narrative around Dunne’s absence and Skenes’ success might seem whimsical, but it highlights the intense scrutiny athletes face regarding their personal lives. Despite the playful banter, Skenes has consistently praised Dunne for her support. Their relationship, which blossomed during their time at LSU, has been a source of strength for Skenes, especially as he navigates the challenges of his rookie season in Major League Baseball (Fox Sports).
Dunne, who has also enjoyed a successful athletic career, including SEC Gymnast of the Week honors and contributing to LSU’s all-around national championship win, has been busy with her own commitments. Her absence from Skenes’ second game was due to her attending a major gymnastics event. Despite the distance, her influence on Skenes’ mental game remains significant (WFIN Local News) (Fox Sports).
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Paul Skenes to see if he can maintain his momentum and continue to deliver historic performances. Meanwhile, the dynamic between him and Dunne will undoubtedly continue to capture the interest of fans and media alike, adding a personal layer to Skenes’ already compelling professional journey.
The playful notion of Dunne as a “bad luck charm” is likely to remain just that—a playful notion. What is clear, however, is that both Skenes and Dunne are rising stars in their respective fields, and their support for each other extends beyond the confines of the stadiums and arenas they compete in. As Skenes continues to shine on the mound, the partnership with Dunne will undoubtedly be a topic of interest and support for the young pitcher (WFIN Local News) (Fox Sports).
