Pirates Brush Off Paul Skenes Trade Buzz, But Expect Calls

The Pittsburgh Pirates have repeatedly made their position clear: Paul Skenes is not on the trade block. But that has not stopped rival clubs from circling.

Pittsburgh general manager Ben Cherington made it clear last month that moving Skenes is not under consideration. The 23-year-old ace backed that stance, dismissing the speculation as baseless noise fueled by social media and outside chatter. But when a talent like Skenes emerges, it’s impossible to silence trade rumors entirely.

Skenes is 4-6 with a 1.78 ERA and 0.84 WHIP this season. He leads the majors in WAR and WHIP while holding opposing hitters to the fewest hits in the league.

Despite Pittsburgh’s firm messaging, executives across the league are still preparing aggressive offers. “Multiple GMs have told me that won’t stop them from making serious offers to acquire him,” Jim Bowden of The Athletic wrote. “And, if you’re the Pirates, you have to listen because you have so many needs to fill on your big-league team and also in your farm system.”

Bowden also pointed out that a Skenes deal would demand a return even larger than what the Nationals received for Juan Soto. Still, he acknowledged Skenes’ elite status and four-plus years of team control, adding, “Never say never.”

Internally, though, there are compelling reasons for Pittsburgh to stand firm. Since Don Kelly took over as manager, the team has shown encouraging signs, even if the postseason remains out of reach. The rotation ranks among the league’s best in ERA, opponent batting average, and WHIP. With Bailey Falter pitching well and top prospect Bubba Chandler waiting in the wings, there’s momentum building.

More importantly, the Pirates hold Skenes’ rights through at least 2029, a rare and valuable asset that should not be taken for granted.

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