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3d ago

Pirates GM Ben Cherington Shuts Down Paul Skenes Trade Speculation

Cherington states trading the star pitcher is not under consideration, despite media reports and executive projections of his immense trade value.

May 18, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates starting pitcher Paul Skenes (30) looks on against the Philadelphia Phillies in the ninth inning at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 12: Paul Skenes #30 of the Pittsburgh Pirates in action against the New York Mets at Citi Field on May 12, 2025 in New York City. The Mets defeated the Pirates 4-3.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 25: Paul Skenes #30 of the Pittsburgh Pirates after the third out in the first inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium on April 25, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.
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Overview

  • Paul Skenes, the 2024 NL Rookie of the Year, is under team control through 2030 and remains one of MLB's most valuable players.
  • Pirates GM Ben Cherington firmly denied any plans to trade Skenes, calling it 'not part of the conversation at all.'
  • Speculation about a potential trade was fueled by media reports and anonymous executives estimating a return exceeding the historic Juan Soto deal.
  • The Pirates, with one of MLB's lowest payrolls, are struggling offensively, tying a league record of 26 consecutive games scoring four runs or fewer.
  • Skenes has continued to perform at an elite level, but the team's lack of run support has raised broader questions about Pittsburgh's roster-building approach.