Since his Major League Baseball debut in May 2024, Paul Skenes has quickly emerged as one of the most promising starting pitchers in the league, making Paul Skenes Pittsburgh Pirates retention a top priority for the team‘s management. The Pittsburgh Pirates aim to extend the contract of their standout pitcher beyond the 2029 season, when he becomes a free agent, but powerful teams with deep pockets may compete aggressively for his signature. General manager Benjamin P. Cherington faces pressure to negotiate a deal that aligns with Skenes’ expectations.
Despite Skenes’ talent, Pittsburgh’s current standing complicates efforts to keep him. Insider Jason Mackey pointed out that the Pirates are currently the third worst team in the National League and rank seventh worst overall in MLB, increasing uncertainty around the pitcher’s future in Pittsburgh.
What It Will Take to Persuade Skenes to Stay
Mackey explained that Skenes is likely seeking more than just financial incentives; he wants assurances that the Pirates can build a championship-caliber team. For years, Pittsburgh has struggled to be a World Series contender, and this season their performance has reflected that ongoing challenge. Positioned at the bottom of the National League Central Division, their record stands at 51 wins and 66 losses, far from a playoff berth.
According to Mackey, Skenes will likely demand guarantees from the Pirates’ front office that they are committed to developing a competitive roster. Without that, his preference could lean toward joining a team with a stronger chance to win annually. As Mackey put it,
“Put a team in front of me and we’ll talk, or I’ll go somewhere else”
—Jason Mackey, Insider.
The stakes are high on both sides. If Cherington opts to trade Skenes, he could secure a substantial return that might be reinvested in improving the team. However, if Skenes stays, he expects a roster strong enough to justify his commitment. Mackey concluded,
“I don’t see anything working here between Paul Skenes and the Pirates”
—Jason Mackey, Insider, underscoring the uncertain outlook.
Paul Skenes’ Performance Underlines His Significant Value
Paul Skenes’ outstanding achievements have confirmed why he commands such attention. After winning the National League Rookie of the Year for his impressive debut in 2024, he has continued to excel. Currently boasting a 1.94 ERA and totaling 162 strikeouts this season, Skenes is among the frontrunners for the National League Cy Young Award. Despite these strong individual stats, his win-loss record of 7-8 reflects the Pirates’ limited offensive support and overall team struggles.
In his latest start against the Cincinnati Reds, a team chasing a playoff spot, Skenes demonstrated his dominance by pitching six scoreless innings with eight strikeouts, helping the Pirates secure a 7-0 victory. The offense showed unusual strength early, scoring three runs in the first inning, while relievers Cam Sanders, Ryan Borucki, and Kyle Nicolas maintained the shutout through the later innings. This rare combination of strong pitching and timely offense illustrates the kind of environment Skenes needs to thrive.
Implications for the Pirates’ Future with Their Star Pitcher
The Pirates face a pivotal moment in deciding whether they can meet Paul Skenes’ expectations and build a competitive team that encourages him to stay beyond 2029. His talent promises massive potential payoff for Pittsburgh, but without significant improvements on the roster and a clear vision for contention, the team risks losing a prized asset to wealthier franchises.
General manager Benjamin P. Cherington must weigh the difficult choice between trading Skenes for substantial future assets or committing to the long-term challenge of constructing a winning team around him. The outcome will shape the organization’s trajectory and its appeal to young talent in the coming years, marking a critical juncture for both the player and the Pittsburgh Pirates franchise.