What defines an ace in 2025? Breaking down what success looks like for today's star pitchers

The article explores the evolving definition of an "ace" in modern baseball, comparing the performances of two current star pitchers, Paul Skenes and Tarik Skubal, to the standards of the past. In the modern game, factors like strikeout rates, pitch velocities, and advanced analytics have become increasingly important in evaluating pitcher success. Skenes and Skubal are both having impressive seasons, exhibiting high strikeout numbers and exceptional pitching metrics. However, the article suggests that the traditional view of an "ace" may need to be reconsidered. Factors like endurance, consistency, and the ability to dominate over a full season may be less emphasized in the current game, as pitchers focus more on maximizing their effectiveness in shorter outings. The article highlights the need to understand the evolving landscape of baseball and how the definition of an "ace" has adapted to the changing game, making it challenging to directly compare contemporary pitchers to those of previous eras.