Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes has emerged as one of Major League Baseball’s most prized players early in the 2025 season. The 23-year-old right-hander, fresh off winning the 2024 National League Rookie of the Year award, has continued to impress while navigating ongoing questions about his Paul Skenes contract extension and trade speculation.
In a recent matchup at Chase Field, Skenes delivered a dominant performance against the Arizona Diamondbacks, solidifying his value for the Pirates. Meanwhile, his measured responses regarding his future contract and trade rumors have drawn praise from opposing teams, notably D-backs manager Torey Lovullo, highlighting Skenes’s poise amid uncertainty.
Strong Showings on the Mound Reinforce Skenes’s Rising Star Status
On Wednesday, Paul Skenes started for the Pirates during their 10-1 victory over Arizona, a win that completed a three-game series sweep. Skenes pitched 6.2 innings without allowing a run, surrendering just four hits, and recording seven strikeouts. This commanding outing is part of his standout 2025 campaign, where he currently leads the National League in innings pitched with 75.1, accompanied by an impressive 2.15 ERA and a 0.916 WHIP.
Offensively, the Pirates had key contributions from Isaiah Kiner-Falefa, who went 3-for-4 with two RBIs, and Oneill Cruz, who drove in three runs including a two-run homer in the eighth inning. The lone run for the Diamondbacks came from Tim Tawa’s solo home run in the ninth inning.
Reflecting on his performance, Skenes emphasized his focus and execution.
“Execution was good. Got ahead of guys. I was able to put them away and make pitches when I needed to,”
he said.
“We’ve done a good job sticking with the process and leading ourselves. Doing what we need to do, and it’s showing up now.”
Maintaining Composure Amid Contract and Trade Questions
As one of the most sought-after pitchers this season, speculation has surrounded Paul Skenes contract extension and the possibility of a trade, as the Pirates weigh their options between securing him long term or leveraging his value for assets. Despite this, Skenes has remained composed on the topic, avoiding speculation and focusing on his immediate performance.
MLB insider Bob Nightengale reported that Skenes once again deflected questions regarding his future contract after the game, earning praise from Lovullo.
“Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo raved about the way Pirates ace Paul Skenes has deflected all trade talk speculation and Skenes did the same again today after the game when asked about a future contract extension: ‘I’m not in a rush, and I don’t think they are either,’”
Nightengale tweeted.
Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo raved about the way Pirates ace Paul Skenes has deflected all trade talk speculation and Skenes did the same again today after the game when asked about a future contract extension: ‘I’m not in a rush and I don’t think they are either.’ — Bob Nightengale, MLB Insider
Currently, Skenes remains under team control during the pre-arbitration period, with less than three years of MLB service time and an expected salary near the league minimum of $760,000 this season. He will not qualify for free agency until 2030, leaving the Pirates with significant leverage but also a critical decision about his long-term fit with the team.
Torey Lovullo’s Admiration Highlights Skenes’s Character and Impact
The Arizona Diamondbacks’ manager, Torey Lovullo, has shared an intriguing connection with Skenes. In 2024, Lovullo selected Skenes to start for the National League All-Star team, a high honor for a rookie pitcher. Their relationship extends beyond the field, with Lovullo spending personal time with Skenes during the All-Star festivities.
Lovullo expressed respect for the young pitcher’s character, saying,
“I did get a chance to know him. I spent a little bit of personal time with him, and I don’t think a lot of people get to do that that aren’t inside of his organization or his circle. I will always treasure those times.”
I know we have to face him in two days. We’re going to have to grind it down a little bit, but I’m always looking forward to saying hello to him. Special kid, great for the game. — Torey Lovullo, Arizona Diamondbacks Manager
This mutual respect underscores the prospect’s talent and demeanor, making him a standout figure not only for the Pirates but across the league.
Skenes’s Rise Fuels High Expectations and Intense Speculation
Considered one of the frontrunners for the National League Cy Young Award this season, Paul Skenes has quickly moved beyond his rookie campaign status, where he placed third in voting. His combination of durability, control, and strikeout ability has positioned him as a key player for the Pirates’ ambitions and a potential transformative figure for the franchise.
As the 2025 season unfolds, the decisions surrounding Paul Skenes contract extension and trade speculation will remain central to Pittsburgh’s strategy. His ability to stay grounded amid intense discussions offers reassurance to both the Pirates and rivals, while his outstanding performances continue to enhance his reputation.
The coming months will be crucial for Skenes and the Pirates. Whether the team opts to secure him for the long term or entertain trade offers, the young ace has already showcased the talent and poise that make him a vital MLB presence well into the future.