Skenes is the second confirmed player besides Judge to commit to playing for Team USA, but the American side can draw from stars like Mookie Betts, 2023 WBC hero Trea Turner, Tarik Skubal, Bryce Harper and Bobby Witt Jr.

The stars were out on Monday night as Dunne was joined by Camille Kostek, Ellie Thumann and Xandra, who each threw out a ceremonial first pitch.

It seems like the Pittsburgh Pirates find a way to reach a new rock bottom every week at this point. The most recent edition: a seven-game losing streak that precipitated the firing of manager Derek Shelton, and elicited a very pointed reaction from star right-hander Paul Skenes.

Paul Skenes did not mince words when speaking about the Pittsburgh Pirates firing manager Derek Shelton after a miserable start to the season.

Paul Skenes and the Pittsburgh Pirates (14-27) are in Queens to take on the Mets (26-15) as the two sides open a three-game series. Last year's Rookie of the Year in the National League will be opposed by David Peterson.

The Pirates (14-28) will try and rebound following a tough loss when they take on the Mets (27-15) in the second game of the series on Tuesday night.

Pete Alonso hit a game-winning sacrifice fly in the ninth inning and the New York Mets took advantage of a costly error by shortstop Isiah Kiner-Falefa to beat the Pittsburgh Pirates