Overview

• GM Ben Cherington said that trading Skenes "is not at all part of the conversation," shutting down recent speculation
• The 23-year-old ace has a 2.15 ERA in 12 appearances this season with quality starts in 10 of those games
• Skenes has not held any contract extension talks with the team and remains under club control through the 2030 season
• Owner Bob Nutting’s frugal approach has left the Pirates with one of MLB’s lowest payrolls at approximately $114.2 million
• A proposed Mets trade package of four top prospects highlights Skenes’ high value but remains unconfirmed