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Paul Skenes Starts at Citi Field as Olivia Dunne and SI Models Steal the Spotlight

The Pirates' rising star pitcher takes the mound after a managerial change, with Dunne and fellow Sports Illustrated models adding celebrity flair to the Mets game.

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Overview

  • Paul Skenes, the 2024 NL Rookie of the Year, made his first start at Citi Field in the Pirates' game against the Mets, entering with a 2.77 ERA this season.
  • Olivia Dunne, Skenes' girlfriend and a former LSU gymnast turned Sports Illustrated model, attended the game to support him and participate in pre-game festivities.
  • Sports Illustrated models Camille Kostek, Ellie Thumann, and Xandra Pohl threw ceremonial first pitches, blending entertainment with the game’s opening moments.
  • Dunne, a New Jersey native, wore a gifted Mets jersey during the event, despite her boyfriend pitching against the team, drawing attention from fans and media alike.
  • This marked Skenes' first game since the Pirates fired manager Derek Shelton following a 12–26 start to the season, with Skenes emphasizing the players' need to improve performance.