The Pittsburgh Pirates are not considering trading pitcher Paul Skenes, despite ongoing speculation as the MLB trade deadline approaches. With their playoff hopes fading for a tenth consecutive season, the team is likely to receive inquiries from other clubs about Skenes and its other players. However, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, at least one rival executive has been informed that a trade involving Skenes is “not happening.”
Skenes has emerged as one of the few bright spots for the Pirates in recent years. As of now, the team holds a record of 39-58 following the All-Star break, while Skenes has posted a personal record of 4-8, accompanied by an impressive 2.01 ERA. Since his MLB debut last season, he has recorded a 1.98 ERA and tallied 301 strikeouts over 254 innings pitched.
Despite his standout performance, the Pirates have struggled to compete for a playoff spot. Nevertheless, the organization appears committed to building its future around the 23-year-old right-hander, who is under team control until 2029.
Unfortunately, the Pirates face persistent challenges, particularly in financial terms. The team consistently ranks near the bottom of the league in payroll, raising concerns about their ability to retain top talent. While Skenes represents a significant asset, his potential may be wasted if the team’s financial strategies do not change.
As the trade deadline looms, the Pirates’ management has made it clear that they prefer to keep Skenes, a decision that may not align with the expectations of fans eager for a more competitive team. With the recent history of the franchise, it remains to be seen how their approach will evolve in the coming seasons.
