The Pittsburgh Pirates continue to struggle this season, holding a 33-50 record and sitting fifth in the NL Central as their playoff drought extends to ten consecutive years. Despite talk surrounding Paul Skenes trade rumors response, team officials have firmly stated that the young ace remains untouchable amid ongoing speculation.

Paul Skenes, the Pirates’ top draft pick from 2023, has emerged as a bright spot during an otherwise frustrating campaign. Though the offense has faltered, Skenes has pitched like a Cy Young contender since making his major league debut last May. With four years of team control remaining through the 2030 season, he is widely regarded as the franchise’s future cornerstone. Yet, the Pirates face the challenge of rebuilding a competitive team around him to translate his individual success into winning seasons.

Rumors swirled that the Pirates could trade Skenes in a blockbuster deal, similar in magnitude to the notable eight-player Juan Soto trade between the Washington Nationals and the San Diego Padres in 2022. However, Pirates executives have categorically denied these talks. According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, both Paul Skenes and veteran Andrew McCutchen are considered the organization’s untouchable players, off-limits for trade at this time.

“Ace right-hander Paul Skenes and franchise icon Andrew McCutchen are the Pirates’ only untouchables, according to officials briefed on the team’s plans,” Rosenthal wrote. —Ken Rosenthal, The Athletic

Although Skenes leads the National League in ERA (2.12) and WHIP (0.91), his win-loss record of 4-7 reflects the broader struggles of the Pirates’ lineup, highlighting the need for a stronger supporting cast. The organization appears committed to retaining Skenes as a key part of their long-term strategy despite the current difficulties.

Pirates Consider Moving Mitch Keller as Trade Deadline Nears

While Paul Skenes remains untouchable, another pitcher, Mitch Keller, is reportedly more likely to be traded as the trade deadline approaches. Keller, who is signed to a five-year, $77 million deal, currently commands about 20 percent of the Pirates’ payroll with his $15 million salary this season.

The team faces increasingly costly salary commitments, with Keller’s annual salary set to rise to between $16.5 million and $20 million over the next three years. Coupled with his 3.90 ERA and inconsistent performances, the Pirates may view Keller’s departure as a step toward restructuring the roster.

Keller recently pitched 5.1 scoreless innings against the New York Mets, but over time he has struggled to solidify a top spot in the Pirates rotation. His potential trade could mark the beginning of a broader rebuilding phase as the organization looks to build a more competitive team around their young stars like Skenes.

Implications for the Pirates’ Future and Their Quest to Break a Decade-Long Playoff Drought

The Pirates’ unwavering decision to keep Paul Skenes signals their recognition of his value as a franchise cornerstone despite the club’s overall disappointing performance. With multiple seasons of control remaining, Pittsburgh appears determined to build around Skenes and avoid short-sighted trades that might undermine their long-term outlook.

However, the team’s struggles emphasize the magnitude of the challenge ahead. Retaining Skenes alone will not be enough to end the playoff drought, especially if core contributors like Mitch Keller depart. The organization’s next moves, such as pitching staff changes and potential young player development, will be critical as they attempt to regain competitive form in the National League Central.