Paul Skenes increases donation goal to Gary Sinise Foundation with his yearly strikeout campaign

NEW YORK — One of the hallmarks of Paul Skenes’ Major League tenure so far — other than dominance — has been helping the Gary Sinise Foundation by donating his money and time.

Much like his baseball profile, the Pirates' Roberto Clemente Award nominee this past season keeps doing more and more.

The Pirates’ ace will up his fundraising count this season, increasing his yearly donation mission by 50% to $150,000 for the 2026 season.

Skenes will once again donate $100 per strikeout, the same as the past two years. But he’s also offering a special reward to someone who makes the biggest donation between now and the Pirates’ home opener on April 3.

That person will get a batting practice meet-and-greet with Skenes, along with tickets to a mutually agreed upon game.

"My partnership with the Gary Sinise Foundation has truly gone beyond what I could have ever imagined,” Skenes said. “While we can never do enough for our veterans, first responders and their families, GSF’s programs and resources prove what is possible when we actively step up for these incredible heroes who sacrifice so much to protect and serve our communities.

“I am honored and excited to enter another year alongside GSF of supporting these brave men and women who do so much for us."

Skenes in the past has hosted high school students who have participated in Gary Sinise Foundation educational trips to the Flight 93 Memorial in Shanksville, Pa.

He’s also worked to help uplift first responders in Pittsburgh by serving meals and presenting equipment grants to local police and fire departments.

This offseason, Skenes spent time at Walt Disney World with families of fallen military heroes and first responders as part of the Gary Sinise Foundation’s Snowball Express Program.

“Paul’s journey to step up for our service members and first responders reminds me a lot of my own personal journey, from having family members who have served our country to getting out there to meet so many wonderful men and women who protect our communities and defend our country,” Sinise said. “On behalf of this grateful American, I want to sincerely thank Paul for stepping up in an even bigger way this year to support the Gary Sinise Foundation.”

The Gary Sinise Foundation, started in 2011, works to honor and serve our nation’s defenders, veterans, first responders and their families.

More information on the Gary Sinise Foundation can be found at www.garysinisefoundation.org.

For anyone interested in making a donation and participating in Skenes’ campaign, that link is here. All proceeds will be directed to the Gary Sinise Foundation.

Jason Mackey: Jason.Mackey@pirates.com and @JMackey_PGH.