Olivia Dunne, a gymnast at Louisiana State University, stepped into the batter's box against her boyfriend, Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes, this weekend. The informal at-bat highlighted the intimidating presence of the reigning National League Cy Young Award winner. Dunne shared her reaction on social media, describing it as 'pure fright.'
Livvy Dunne, known for her athletic prowess as a gymnast at Louisiana State University, experienced the challenge faced by Major League Baseball batters when she took an unofficial at-bat against her boyfriend, Paul Skenes. Skenes, the Pittsburgh Pirates' right-hander and the reigning National League Cy Young Award winner, is renowned for his fearsome pitching, including a fastball that often overwhelms opponents.
This weekend's matchup was a lighthearted yet revealing moment for the couple. Dunne held her ground against Skenes' fastball, which he may have slightly reduced in speed for the occasion. However, her visceral response mirrored that of professional hitters: sheer intimidation. On her Instagram story, Dunne posted, "Pure fright."
She described the encounter as "the ultimate test of trust," emerging physically unscathed from her first—and likely only—facing of Skenes' arsenal. Mentally, the experience left an impression, underscoring the pitcher's dominance. Unlike Dunne, batters in the National League Central and across baseball must continue confronting Skenes' pitches in official games.
The event adds a personal touch to the story of the Skenes-Dunne power couple, who have navigated their high-profile relationship amid their respective careers in sports.
