Overview
- Skenes told The Dan Patrick Show the anonymous-teammate claim is untrue, saying he was frustrated for a couple of hours before moving on.
- The rumor originated in a Nov. 12 NJ Advance Media report quoting an unnamed Pirates teammate who said Skenes had mentioned wanting to play for the Yankees.
- Skenes emphasized a desire to build something in Pittsburgh, saying leaving before the job is finished would leave a bad taste.
- He has produced elite results with Rookie of the Year and 2025 Cy Young honors, a 1.96–1.97 ERA that led MLB last season, and a 386-to-74 K/BB over two years.
- He remains under club control for at least four more seasons and will not be eligible for free agency until after 2029, though speculation persists given Pittsburgh’s recent losing seasons.