Full Breakdown
Paul Skenes Shaves Iconic Mustache Ahead of 2026 MLB Season
1/2/2026, 10:16:14 PM
Major Change for a Rising Star
Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes has made a notable personal change as he prepares for the 2026 MLB season: he has shaved his iconic mustache. The 23-year-old athlete, who won the National League Cy Young Award in 2025, debuted his clean-shaven look during a New Year’s celebration with his girlfriend, influencer and former LSU gymnast Livvy Dunne. This decision marks a significant shift for Skenes, who has sported facial hair since his MLB debut in 2023.
Background on Paul Skenes
Skenes was drafted first overall by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 2023 MLB Draft after a standout college career at LSU, where he earned multiple accolades, including the National Pitcher of the Year Award. He quickly established himself as one of baseball's top pitchers, achieving a 1.97 ERA and leading the league in strikeouts in 2025. His performance has drawn attention not only for his skills on the mound but also for his distinctive facial hair, which he maintained throughout his early career.
Livvy Dunne's Reaction
Livvy Dunne shared her reaction to Skenes' new look on TikTok, humorously captioning a video, "pov: seeing ur bf without facial hair for the first time." She expressed her approval of his clean-shaven appearance, calling him a "baby face cutieeee." Dunne, who has built a successful career as a content creator and model, emphasized the importance of mutual support in their relationship, stating, "We don't restrict each other from doing things."
Implications of the Change
The decision to shave has sparked discussions among fans and commentators about potential superstitions in sports regarding facial hair. While some athletes believe that maintaining facial hair can bring good luck, Skenes' clean-shaven look may symbolize a fresh start as he aims to replicate his previous success in the upcoming season. Despite the change, analysts expect Skenes to continue his dominance on the mound, with hopes of securing another Cy Young Award.
Official Statements & Responses
In a recent interview, Dunne expressed excitement about spending more time with Skenes as they both navigate their careers. She remarked, "It's going to be a lot of fun and I'm excited to lean into this new lifestyle and be there for Paul." Meanwhile, Skenes is preparing for the 2026 World Baseball Classic, where he will represent Team USA.
Criticism & Opposition
While the couple enjoys a supportive relationship, some fans have raised concerns about the potential impact of Skenes' new look on his performance. Historical precedents in sports suggest that changes in appearance can influence an athlete's mindset and performance, leading to speculation about whether this decision might affect his game.
What's Next
As the 2026 MLB season approaches, Skenes will be closely watched not only for his performance but also for any further developments in his personal life, including his relationship with Dunne. The Pirates have made moves to bolster their roster, and Skenes' role will be pivotal as they aim to end a decade-long postseason drought.
