It’s not unusual for pitchers to begin their season looking for big strikeout numbers. However, Pittsburgh’s Paul Skenes isn’t just looking to strike hitters out on general principle. This year, he has some extra motivation.
In a statement posted to his X account Thursday, Skenes announced that he will donate $100 to the Gary Sinise Foundation, which supports veterans and first responders, for every strikeout he gets this year.
“Join me this season as I support the Gary Sinise Foundation in raising funds for our nation’s veterans and first responders,” Skenes wrote.
“I am personally donating $100 for every strikeout I record this season,” he added.
Skenes doesn’t want to go it alone. He wants all of his followers and all aware of the initiative to join in and donate to the Gary Sinise Foundation.
The timing of the announcement is of particular significance given the tragic killing of New York City Police Department Officer Jonathan Diller, who was shot during a traffic stop earlier this week. Diller leaves behind a wife and a 9-month-old son.
Actor Gary Sinise began his foundation in 2011 after a long stint of volunteering, fundraising, and performing for veterans, first responders, and their allies. Sinise then took that experience and began his own foundation, which has grown over the years.