Paul Skenes has made history to begin his career, surpassing MLB greats

TL;DR

Paul Skenes has made MLB history by achieving the lowest ERA of 2.05 through a pitcher's first 60 career starts, surpassing legends like Vida Blue and Dwight Gooden.

Key points

Paul Skenes has the lowest ERA in MLB history for first 60 starts
His ERA is 2.05, surpassing Vida Blue and Dwight Gooden
Skenes' performance is considered historically unmatched

Paul SkenesVida BlueDwight GoodenPittsburgh Pirates

We’ve seen dominant starts to an MLB career before, but this is different. Pirates superstar Paul Skenes has officially made history in Major League Baseball, posting the lowest ERA ever through a pitcher’s first 60 career starts (minimum 300 strikeouts). His ERA? 2.05 That’s not just elite—it’s historically unmatched.

Skenes now sits alone at the top of a list that includes some of the most electric arms the game has ever seen:

Paul Skenes — 2.05 ERA
Vida Blue — 2.19 ERA
Dwight Gooden — 2.20 ERA

To pass names like Blue and Gooden isn’t just impressive—it’s a statement about just how dominant Skenes has been from day one.

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Pittsburgh Pirates starting pitcher Paul Skenes

More Than Just Run Prevention

This isn’t a fluky ERA built on luck. The 300+ strikeouts in that span tell the real story. Skenes isn’t just limiting damage—he’s overpowering hitters, missing bats, and controlling games in a way very few young pitchers ever have. Most pitchers take time to adjust to the big leagues.

Skenes skipped that step. From his first outing, he’s looked like a frontline ace—commanding his arsenal, attacking hitters, and showing the kind of composure you expect from veterans, not someone at the beginning of their career.

Historic Company…and Then Some

Vida Blue and Dwight Gooden weren’t just good; they were generational. And somehow, Skenes has been even better through this point in his career. That’s what makes this moment so significant. This isn’t just a hot stretch—it’s a historically elite foundation.

Q&A

What is Paul Skenes' ERA in his first 60 MLB starts?

Paul Skenes has an ERA of 2.05 in his first 60 career starts.

Who did Paul Skenes surpass in MLB ERA rankings?

Paul Skenes surpassed Vida Blue and Dwight Gooden, who had ERAs of 2.19 and 2.20, respectively.

What does Paul Skenes' achievement signify in MLB history?

Skenes' achievement signifies his dominance as he holds the record for the lowest ERA through a pitcher's first 60 starts, marking a historic milestone.