Earlier this season, speculation about the Pittsburgh Pirates trading Paul Skenes sparked discussions among fans and analysts. Although the Pirates’ front office quickly dismissed these rumors, assuring the public that such a trade would not occur, skepticism remains. The uncertainty around Skenes’ long-term future with the team has intensified as more insiders voice predictions about his departure.
Management Officials Deny Any Imminent Trade Plans
Unnamed Pirates executives have emphatically rejected the idea of trading Skenes this year, stating there is
“no chance, no way, no how”
of a trade happening soon. General Manager Ben Cherington echoed this sentiment by saying a trade involving Skenes is
“not part of the conversation at all.”
Despite these reassurances, rumors continue to circulate as rival teams and fans speculate about possible trade scenarios involving the promising young pitcher.
Why the Pirates Might Consider Trading Their Star Pitcher
The assumptions that Pittsburgh might eventually trade Skenes are supported by the team‘s recent behavior. The Pirates have not invested heavily in building a competitive team over several years, and even with Skenes’ presence, the organization has yet to show a strong commitment to contending for a championship. If the Pirates fail to assemble a winning roster soon, they risk losing Skenes to free agency without any compensation. Trading him before he reaches that point would ensure the team receives valuable returns for one of the most talented pitchers currently in the league.
Insider Predicts 2026 as the Last Full Year for Skenes in Pittsburgh
Local Pirates beat reporter Noah Hiles sees 2026 as the probable final full season Skenes will spend with the team. Writing in a July 10 mailbag for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Hiles cited several factors influencing this forecast, including a potential Major League Baseball lockout in 2027 and the organization’s reluctance to fully build around Skenes. His prediction has already captured attention on social media, highlighted by commentator Dom DiTommaso who shared Hiles’ outlook with concern:
“.@_NoahHiles: ‘If I had to make a bet right now, I think 2026 will be Skenes’ final full year in Pittsburgh.’ God, that’s depressing.” —Dom DiTommaso
Paul Skenes’ Outstanding Performance Amid Team Struggles
Skenes has been exceptional this season, leading all qualified pitchers with a 1.94 ERA across more than 116 innings pitched. His 0.922 WHIP, 125 strikeouts, and 30 walks underline his dominance on the mound. Additionally, he tops Major League Baseball with a 220 ERA+. This year marks his second All-Star selection, complementing last season’s achievements, which included Rookie of the Year honors and recognition in Cy Young and MVP voting. Despite his elite performance, Skenes’ desire to pitch for a winning team clashes with the Pirates’ track record of limited spending and competitiveness.
Potential for Change Through Emerging Talent and Strategic Moves
The Pirates still have reasons for optimism. Beyond Skenes, the franchise possesses several promising prospects like Bubba Chandler and Konnor Griffin, who could bolster the team’s future. If these young players develop as expected and the team pairs them with strong free-agent signings or shrewd trades, Pittsburgh could assemble a roster capable of contending in the National League Central division. Such moves would alter the current narrative surrounding Skenes’ future and provide a foundation to retain their star pitcher.
The Stakes of Trading a Franchise Cornerstone
Paul Skenes stands as the cornerstone of the Pirates’ rebuild, and trading him for more controllable young talent would essentially reset the team‘s progress, which many fans and insiders find unacceptable. The Pirates have remained at the bottom of Major League Baseball standings for years, making it crucial to capitalize on a talent of Skenes’ caliber. With one of the league’s best ballparks and a loyal fan base, the Pirates possess the assets necessary to convince Skenes to build his career in Pittsburgh long-term. The question now is whether the organization will commit resources and effort to changing course before it’s too late.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Did anyone pull the Paul Skenes?
A. The family first heard from Fanatics Collect on January 2. Just 19 days after that, Topps revealed that an 11-year-old collector found the Skenes card in one hobby box.
Q. How does Livvy Dunne know Paul Skenes?
A. Famous gymnast Livvy Dunne and her partner, baseball player Paul Skenes, have shared their relationship story. They met as students at Louisiana State University.
Q. How much did Paul Skenes get?
A. Paul Skenes worked his way up through MLB’s minor league teams until he played in the major league in 2024. He received a $9.2 million signing bonus in 2023. In 2024, he joined the Pirates with a one-year contract, earning $740,000 before arbitration.