The Pittsburgh Pirates have affirmed that pitcher Paul Skenes and veteran outfielder Andrew McCutchen will remain with the team through the 2025 season, signaling their importance to the franchise’s future plans ahead of the trade deadline. This announcement highlights the Pirates’ focus on building around their promising ace and seasoned leader despite the team’s current struggles.
Pirates Commit to Skenes and McCutchen Amid 2025 Challenges
Paul Skenes, the first overall pick in the 2023 MLB Draft, quickly rose to prominence after his major league debut in May 2024, establishing himself as Pittsburgh’s leading starting pitcher. In 17 starts this season, Skenes boasts a strong 2.12 ERA and 110 strikeouts, although limited run support has contributed to his 4–7 win-loss record. His rapid development has made him a cornerstone for the Pirates’ pitching staff moving forward.
Andrew McCutchen, a franchise icon entering his 17th major league season, continues to provide offensive production and veteran leadership. Since rejoining Pittsburgh in 2023 after stints with several teams including the San Francisco Giants, McCutchen carries a .259 batting average with eight home runs and a .744 on-base plus slugging (OPS) this year. His influence extends beyond statistics, as he remains a key figure in motivating the clubhouse.
Team’s Current Struggles and Roster Strategy
The Pirates are currently positioned last in the National League Central with a 32–50 record, trailing the division leader by 16.5 games. With playoff contention no longer within reach, the organization is prepared to explore trade options for players outside their untouchable core of Skenes and McCutchen in an effort to strengthen the team’s future. This approach underlines the importance of these two players to the Pirates’ long-term vision.
As The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal reported,
“Ace right-hander Paul Skenes and franchise icon Andrew McCutchen are the Pirates’ only untouchables, according to officials briefed on the team’s plans.”
—Ken Rosenthal, The Athletic
Future Prospects and Season Outlook
Maintaining Skenes and McCutchen through the remainder of the season provides Pittsburgh with a foundation to build upon as they aim to improve both on the field and in the clubhouse. Skenes’ impressive pitching performances and McCutchen’s steady contributions offer hope to Pirates fans looking ahead beyond this challenging campaign. The team’s strategy to keep these key players signals a commitment to stability and development heading into future seasons.