This past week an 11-year-old collector from Los Angeles discovered a one-of-a-kind Paul Skenes rookie card, featuring the Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher’s autograph and a patch from a game-worn jersey. The Pittsburgh Pirates offered a substantial, but laughable package in exchange for this unique card, including:
• Two season tickets behind home plate at PNC Park for the next 30 years. Now who wants to go see a Bob Nutting team for 30 years?
• A meet-and-greet with Paul Skenes. Not worth the money he could get in my opinion.
• Two autographed Skenes jerseys.
• A softball game at PNC Park for 30 people, with coaching from former Pirates players. Are these the same coaches the team use?
• A spring training experience, including a private tour of the team’s facility, the opportunity to take batting practice with the team, and other perks.
Additionally, Skenes’ girlfriend, LSU gymnast and influencer Livvy Dunne, offered the card’s owner the opportunity to watch a game with her in a luxury suite at the ballpark during one of Skenes’ starts. This would change my mind(eye roll)!
Despite these enticing offers, the young collector declined and instead plans to auction the card. Given Paul Skenes’ impressive rookie season—where he finished third in NL Cy Young Award voting—the card is expected to fetch a significant sum at auction. Proceeds from the sale will be donated to fire relief efforts in the Los Angeles area.
The decision to auction the card likely stems from its potential high market value, which could surpass the experiences and tickets offered by the Pirates. By choosing to sell the card, the collector can make a substantial financial contribution to a cause important to their community.
Rashene Hill
