The Paradox of Paul Skenes' Season

Paul Skenes, the Pittsburgh Pirates' ace, boasts a remarkable 1.85 ERA, leading the majors. However, his win-loss record stands at a modest 4-6. This discrepancy highlights a broader issue in modern baseball: the diminishing relevance of pitcher wins in the age of analytics.

The Historical Context of Pitcher Wins

Historically, pitcher wins were a cornerstone of baseball statistics. Legends like Cy Young and Jack Chesbro are immortalized by their win totals. However, as the game evolved, the reliance on wins as a measure of a pitcher's effectiveness has waned. The rise of advanced metrics like ERA, WAR, and strikeout rates has shifted the focus away from traditional win-loss records.

The Game Score Method: A New Approach

To address this, we propose the game score method, a refined way to assign wins and losses based on a pitcher's performance relative to their opponent. This method considers factors like innings pitched, strikeouts, and earned runs, providing a more accurate reflection of a pitcher's contribution to the game.

How It Works

1. Calculate Game Score: Using a formula that accounts for innings pitched, strikeouts, and earned runs.
2. Assign Wins and Losses: The pitcher with the higher game score in a matchup is awarded the win.
3. Eliminate No-Decisions: Every start results in a win or loss, removing the ambiguity of no-decisions.

Paul Skenes' Game Score Record

Applying the game score method to Skenes' season reveals a more favorable 11-5 record. This adjustment underscores his dominance on the mound, despite the Pirates' offensive struggles.

Implications for MLB

Adopting the game score method could revolutionize how we evaluate pitchers. It bridges the gap between traditional and modern metrics, offering a comprehensive view of a pitcher's performance. This approach could also reignite interest in pitcher wins, making them a meaningful statistic once again.

Conclusion

Paul Skenes' season exemplifies the need for a new way to measure pitcher success. The game score method offers a balanced approach, honoring the past while embracing the future of baseball analytics. As we continue to refine our understanding of the game, this method could become a vital tool in assessing and appreciating the art of pitching.