Paul Skenes and Olivia Dunne’s Japan trip sparks Pirates fans’ concern over offseason routine

Pittsburgh Pirates ace Paul Skenes and girlfriend Olivia Dunne, the LSU gymnast and social media star, spent part of their offseason in Japan, where they tried sumo wrestling and visited a USO tour stop. The getaway, shared across Dunne’s popular platforms, gave fans a glimpse of the couple’s adventures—but it also raised a familiar worry among Pirates faithful: whether the young pitcher is sticking to his usual offseason training regimen. Skenes, the No. 1 overall pick in 2023 and a National League Rookie of the Year favorite, is seen as the cornerstone of Pittsburgh’s rotation, and any deviation from his routine during a critical development period draws attention. The Japan trip comes after a breakout debut season in which Skenes posted a 1.96 ERA and struck out 170 batters in 133 innings, numbers that cemented his status as one of baseball’s most promising arms. While the sumo session and USO appearance highlight his growing celebrity, Pirates fans are eager to see if the offseason travels affect his preparation for spring training in Bradenton, Florida. For a franchise desperate to end a decade-long playoff drought, Skenes’ health and readiness are paramount—and every photo from abroad is a reminder that the franchise’s future rests on his right arm.