Paul Skenes, the National League Rookie of the Year, had a unique journey. He started with Air Force in 2022 and then led LSU to a national championship in 2023. The Pirates are set to build around him with a strong rotation.

Unraveling the Tales of Baseball's Rising Stars

Paul Skenes: From Rookie to Baseball's Rising Star

Paul Skenes had a blank expression when named National League Rookie of the Year, barely smiling before an awkward hug with his girlfriend. He had a 1.96 ERA in 23 starts for the Pirates and struck out 170 in 133 innings. His workload increased significantly from Air Force to LSU. The Pirates plan to use him as a regular starter in spring training. He's not one for the limelight but is a great learner. With him atop the rotation, the Pirates are aiming for a winning record.Skenes is a unique case. He started 15 games for Air Force in 2022 and had 182 plate appearances as the DH. In 2023 for LSU, his workload jumped to 122⅔ innings. The Pirates limited him to 6⅔ innings in five minor league starts. He started the All-Star Game and stayed to learn from veteran pitchers. He believes in letting stats take care of themselves when doing things right.

The Red Sox Offseason Moves: Smart Decisions and Lessons Learned

The Red Sox made a smart move by turning Nick Pivetta into a draft pick. Pivetta was 6-12 with a 4.14 ERA last season but declined the qualifying offer. The Sox feel they can replace him with a better pitcher. Pivetta is an interesting character, a good teammate but gave bland answers.Other Red Sox moves include signing Seby Zavala to a minor league contract. He's an excellent defensive catcher with 194 games of major league experience. Connor Wong is the only catcher on the 40-man roster for now.The trade of Kiké Hernández didn't work out well. Robertson went to the Cardinals and Hagenman signed with the Mets.

Terry Francona's Return to Boston: Making Peace

Terry Francona, the greatest manager in Red Sox history, was fired after the 2011 season but returned for the 2004 team reunion. He was at TD Garden for The Tradition and shared fond memories. He joked about Bobby Valentine and told a fun story about the 2004 team's playoff traditions. Francona looks great after a year off and is excited to manage the Reds.

Extra Bases: Insights from the Baseball World

Cash has a lot on his plate with the Rays playing at a new stadium. The ballpark dimensions could lead to more home runs. Shohei Ohtani is a three-time unanimous MVP and could win a Cy Young Award next. Juan Soto is a young star with a long career ahead. MLB and the BBWAA should treat Nippon Professional Baseball better. Rich Hill could make a comeback. The WooSox Foundation honors gala is coming up.Peter Abraham can be reached at peter.abraham@globe.com. Follow him @PeteAbe.