2024 MLB Rookie of the Year Winners: Paul Skenes and Luis Gil Shine

2024 MLB Rookie of the Year Awards

The 2024 Jackie Robinson Rookie of the Year Awards were announced on Monday. Paul Skenes of the Pittsburgh Pirates won the National League Rookie of the Year, while Luis Gil of the New York Yankees took home the American League Rookie of the Year.

Historic Awards

This year marked a significant milestone. Both winners are starting pitchers, a rare occurrence last seen in 1981. The only other instances were in 1976 and 1952.

Paul Skenes’ Accomplishments

Paul Skenes, a 22-year-old right-handed pitcher, had an outstanding debut season. He was selected first overall by the Pirates in the 2023 Draft. Skenes made his MLB debut on May 11 and finished the season with an 11-3 record and a 1.96 ERA over 23 starts. He set a Pirates rookie record with 170 strikeouts.

Skenes reflected on his achievement, stating, “This is cool. It puts a bow on this past year.” He noted the importance of staying present and expressed gratitude for those around him.

Earlier in the season, Skenes became the first rookie pitcher to start the All-Star Game since 1995. His ERA led all MLB rookies with at least 100 innings pitched. He became the first rookie pitcher since 1913 to achieve at least 170 strikeouts and a sub-2.00 ERA.

Skenes joined Jason Bay as the only Pirates to win the Rookie of the Year award. He is also the fifth No. 1 overall pick to win it, joining notable players like Carlos Correa and Bryce Harper.

Skenes praised Pittsburgh’s fans and expressed hope for the team’s future.

Luis Gil’s Journey

Luis Gil won the American League Rookie of the Year in a close race, winning by just five points over teammate Cowser. This was the second-closest election in league history.

Gil shared his excitement, saying, “It means so much to me… I’m so happy and excited about this.” He thanked his team for the opportunity to pitch a full season.

Gil had brief appearances in 2021 and 2022 but faced Tommy John surgery, which kept him out of the 2023 season. In 2024, he became a key player for the Yankees, particularly excelling in May with a 6-0 record and a 0.70 ERA.

Despite some ups and downs, Gil ended his season with a 3.50 ERA over 29 starts, achieving a 26.8% strikeout rate.

He became the 10th Yankees player to win the ROY Award and the first since Aaron Judge in 2017. Gil expressed pride in being mentioned alongside legends like Judge and Derek Jeter.

Both Skenes and Gil delivered remarkable performances in their rookie seasons, earning well-deserved recognition in the MLB.