Paul Skenes has quickly established himself as one of baseball’s top pitching talents at just 22 years old. Despite his impressive start with the Pittsburgh Pirates, trade rumors involving him are gaining momentum as the 2023 season progresses. Evaluating the Paul Skenes trade package proposal from the Los Angeles Dodgers reveals why the Pirates might need to take a serious look at parting ways with their rising star.
A Closer Examination of the Dodgers’ Proposed Trade Offer
Jim Bowden, former MLB general manager and insider, crafted five possible trade scenarios for the Pirates, but one particular package including players from the Dodgers stands out. This offer features four promising prospects: two hitters, Dalton Rushing and Andy Pages, alongside pitchers Jackson Ferris and Landon Knack. While Skenes is an exceptional pitcher, this group could address multiple areas of need for Pittsburgh.
Dalton Rushing, the Dodgers’ top prospect and ranked 15th overall by MLB Pipeline, recently made his major league debut. Primarily a catcher, he has also played first base and left field, showcasing his defensive versatility. Rushing’s powerful bat makes him a prime candidate to become a cornerstone of the Pirates’ lineup. His arrival could instantly upgrade the team’s offensive potential and provide Pittsburgh with the best hitting prospect currently in their system.
Andy Pages is a more seasoned player with major league experience, carrying a 1.7 fWAR. If acquired, he would rank as the Pirates’ best hitter after Skenes’ potential departure. Pages boasts a wRC+ of 116 and a .772 OPS, traits that would give the team a significant boost in run production. He fits well into the outfield alongside key players like Oneil Cruz and Bryan Reynolds, forming a promising outfield trio that could strengthen Pittsburgh’s offense immediately.
Prospects Aiming to Bolster Pitching Depth and Future Rotation
On the pitching side, Landon Knack brings solid experience for a 27-year-old. Although his 4.12 ERA and 1.36 WHIP over nearly 100 innings indicate room for improvement, Knack could provide dependable innings in the Pirates’ back-end rotation. His 8.59 strikeouts per nine innings show potential for consistent pitching contributions, adding much-needed depth to Pittsburgh’s staff.
Jackson Ferris, a left-handed pitcher currently in Double-A, has the tools to become a frontline starter. His season statistics include a 3.32 FIP, a 5.45 ERA, and an impressive 10.4 strikeouts per nine innings, although control issues remain a concern. Success in refining his command could elevate Ferris to an elite prospect status—already ranked 63rd overall—and eventually a key contributor to the Pirates’ pitching future.
Assessing the Impact and Future Outlook for Pittsburgh
Replacing a player of Skenes’ caliber would be extraordinarily difficult, yet this trade package offers a mix of high-upside hitters and pitchers that could transform the Pirates’ long-term outlook. Internal options such as Bubba Chandler, Jared Jones, and Mitch Keller exist to fill rotation spots, but financial constraints seemingly prevent Pittsburgh from fully committing to Skenes’ development and surrounding him with a competitive roster.
While Bowden’s proposed package might not meet the Dodgers’ expectations to acquire Skenes, it demonstrates the type of deal that could alter the Pirates’ trajectory. Balancing immediate talent with future potential, this proposal presents a strategic avenue for Pittsburgh amid growing uncertainty around Skenes’ tenure with the club.