Full Breakdown
Paul Skenes Addresses Trade Rumors Amid Cy Young Success
11/19/2025, 6:00:22 PM
Overview of Trade Rumors
Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes has found himself at the center of trade speculation linking him to the New York Yankees following his impressive performance in the 2025 season, where he won the National League Cy Young Award. Reports surfaced, particularly from NJ Advance Media's Randy Miller, citing an anonymous teammate who claimed Skenes expressed a desire to play for the Yankees. Despite this, Skenes has publicly downplayed the rumors, stating, “I was frustrated for a couple of hours and then got over it. It is what it is. Obviously, it’s not true.”
Skenes' Performance and Future with the Pirates
In just his second season, Skenes has established himself as a top pitcher, posting a 1.97 ERA and a 0.948 WHIP over 32 starts. Despite his individual success, the Pirates have struggled, finishing with a 71-91 record in 2025. Skenes, who is under team control until 2029, has expressed a commitment to building a competitive team in Pittsburgh, reflecting on his past experiences at the Air Force Academy where he helped lead the team to its first conference championship. He stated, “Leaving before that would leave a bad taste because there would still be work left undone.”
Official Statements & Responses
While Skenes has denied any intention to leave the Pirates, MLB insider Jeff Passan confirmed that he does not foresee Skenes pushing for a trade this offseason, emphasizing that “he's not going anywhere.” Pirates general manager Ben Cherington also noted that while other teams have inquired about Skenes' availability, the organization has no plans to trade their star pitcher. Cherington remarked, “It’s always respectful. Teams have to ask the question, right?”
Criticism & Opposition
Despite Skenes' commitment to the Pirates, some analysts speculate that the ongoing rumors reflect a broader concern about the franchise's ability to retain top talent in a small market. Critics argue that without significant improvements to the team's competitiveness, Skenes may eventually seek a trade to a more successful organization. The Pirates have not had a winning season since 2015, which raises questions about their long-term strategy.
What's Next for Skenes and the Pirates
As the Pirates prepare for the 2026 season, Skenes remains focused on contributing to the team's success. He has reiterated his desire to change the narrative surrounding the franchise, stating, “I want to be a part of the 26 guys that change that.” The organization is expected to work on building a more competitive roster, which could influence Skenes' future with the team and potentially quell ongoing trade speculation.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I was frustrated for a couple of hours and then, kind of, got over it… Obviously it's not true.” — Paul Skenes, Pittsburgh Pirates Pitcher
- “The goal is to win, and the goal is to win in Pittsburgh,” — Paul Skenes, Pittsburgh Pirates Pitcher
- “It's tough to not show up to the field every day and be bitter sometimes.” — Paul Skenes, Pittsburgh Pirates Pitcher
- “The bar only moves one way.” — Paul Skenes, Pittsburgh Pirates Pitcher
In summary, while trade rumors persist, Paul Skenes remains committed to the Pittsburgh Pirates, focusing on building a successful team and addressing the challenges that come with being a star player in a struggling franchise.
