NEW YORK (AP) — Paul Skenes is ready to take on the world. The Pittsburgh Pirates ace announced he is joining Team USA when the World Baseball Classic returns next spring. The reigning National League Rookie of the Year is expected to be near the top of the rotation for the Americans, who are coming off a runner-up finish to Japan at the 2023 WBC. Skenes, who turns 23 in late May, is 14-7 with a 2.16 ERA in 32 career starts since reaching the majors in May 2024.