Despite a disappointing season, the Pittsburgh Pirates are firmly committed to keeping their rising pitching star Paul Skenes. General manager Ben Cherington has rejected any notion of trading the reigning National League Rookie of the Year, putting to rest recent trade rumors swirling around the young phenom.
Pirates stand firm amid trade speculation
The Pittsburgh Pirates are enduring another challenging season, currently holding a 17-34 record and sitting at the bottom of the National League Central division. Amid the struggles, whispers have emerged around the baseball world suggesting that the team might consider trading their prized young pitcher, Paul Skenes.
However, Pirates general manager Ben Cherington was quick and clear to dismiss those rumors ahead of Thursday’s 8-5 loss to the Milwaukee Brewers. When asked about the possibility of trading Skenes, Cherington was blunt: “No, it’s not part of the conversation at all.” His statement leaves no doubt about the Pirates’ stance on their budding ace.
This firm position comes despite the growing frustration that the Pirates are facing on the field this season. While the team as a whole has faltered, Cherington’s refusal to entertain the trade talk underscores the value the organization places on Skenes as a cornerstone of their rebuilding efforts.
Paul Skenes: a bright spot on a struggling team
Paul Skenes burst onto the MLB scene last year, immediately making waves by winning the National League Rookie of the Year award. The LSU product has been the Pirates’ most reliable starter, showcasing his talent with a solid 2.44 ERA so far this season. Despite the team’s poor record, Skenes continues to deliver strong performances on the mound.
Known outside baseball circles for his relationship with gymnastics star and social media influencer Olivia “Livvy” Dunne, Skenes has also built a reputation as a rising star in the league. His 2024 season included a start in the National League All-Star Game, further highlighting his rapid ascent.
Nevertheless, Skenes’ individual success has not translated into team wins. The Pirates have gone just 3-7 in his ten starts this year, largely due to lackluster run support. Over his last six starts, Pittsburgh has scored only ten runs total, leaving Skenes with little margin for error despite his strong pitching efforts.
Trade rumors fueled by external voices
The trade discussion surrounding Skenes gained traction after some prominent MLB media figures suggested the Pirates might consider moving him. ESPN’s Jeff Passan brought up the idea during an appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show,” pointing to the team’s overall struggles and potential value in trading a high-profile asset.
Similarly, MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand recently posed questions about Skenes’ future in Pittsburgh amid the ongoing difficulties for the Pirates. These media voices have sparked debate among fans and analysts about whether the Pirates should capitalize on Skenes’ value or hold onto their young talent as part of a longer-term rebuild.
Yet, despite the buzz, the Pirates’ front office has made it clear that trading Skenes is not even remotely under consideration. This commitment signals their belief that Skenes is essential to turning the franchise around, rather than a trade chip to be leveraged in a difficult season.
Looking ahead for the Pirates and Skenes
For now, the Pirates are focusing on development and progress rather than quick fixes. Paul Skenes remains the centerpiece of their future plans, and his continued growth is seen as key to revitalizing a team that has struggled to compete.
While the 2024 season has been tough, Skenes’ performances have been a silver lining for Pittsburgh fans. His complete game on Sunday, where he struck out nine batters over eight innings despite a narrow 1-0 loss to the Phillies, demonstrated his potential to dominate at the highest level. As the Pirates continue to rebuild, the front office’s unwavering support for Skenes sends a clear message that they intend to build around him rather than dismantle their young core. For a franchise seeking sustained success, holding onto a player of Skenes’ caliber is an investment in the future.
In summary, despite speculation and external pressure, Pirates GM Ben Cherington’s firm dismissal of Paul Skenes trade rumors reflects Pittsburgh’s strategic commitment to its promising young ace. For now, Skenes remains the bright spot amid a difficult season, with the Pirates betting on him to lead their resurgence.
