Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes experienced a mix of emotions during his first appearance in the World Baseball Classic on Monday night, ranging from excitement to anxiety. Despite the high-pressure situation at Daikin Park, Skenes remained composed and delivered four scoreless innings to help Team USA secure a 5-3 victory over Mexico.
Notable Defensive Play by Bobby Witt Jr. Draws Skenes’ Admiration
During the fourth inning, Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. made a remarkable diving stop on a hard-hit ball by Alejandro Kirk. Witt, a two-time Gold Glove recipient, quickly recovered to his knees and launched a perfect one-hop throw to first baseman Bryce Harper, safely retiring Kirk at first base. Skenes, watching from the mound, turned to Witt with a smile, clearly impressed by the defensive effort.
“You’re not getting it by Bobby 😤#WorldBaseballClassic https://t.co/Zhz8xZbrpg pic.twitter.com/PIZDc3GyjR”
— MLB (@MLB) March 10, 2026
Skenes’ Reaction to Witt’s Play Captures Fan Attention Online
The candid moment of Skenes’ reaction quickly went viral on social media platform X, with many fans humorously noting the intensity of his glance toward Witt. One fan commented on the interaction, pointing out the contrast between Skenes’ gaze at Witt compared to his attention toward his girlfriend, Livvy Dunne.
“Dude doesn’t even look at Livvy Dunne the way he looks at Bobby Witt Jr. pic.twitter.com/tyNkVrEMzN”
— Brian (@BrianMcGannon) March 10, 2026
While the comparison drew laughs, it highlights Witt’s extraordinary defensive skills, which few players could replicate. Skenes’ composed pitching and his warm acknowledgment of Witt’s skillful play underline Team USA’s strong camaraderie throughout the tournament.
Impact of Skenes’ Performance and What Lies Ahead for Team USA
Paul Skenes’ successful outing in his World Baseball Classic debut adds depth to Team USA’s pitching staff as the tournament progresses. His calm demeanor under pressure and ability to support teammates like Witt set a positive tone for the squad. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how Skenes and the rest of Team USA continue to perform in upcoming games.
You're not getting it by Bobby 😤#WorldBaseballClassic https://t.co/Zhz8xZbrpg pic.twitter.com/PIZDc3GyjR
— MLB (@MLB) March 10, 2026
Dude doesn’t even look at Livvy Dunne the way he looks at Bobby Witt Jr. pic.twitter.com/tyNkVrEMzN
— Brian (@BrianMcGannon) March 10, 2026
