Pirates Deny Trade Rumors, Commit to Skenes

Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes has emerged as a standout rookie with a 2.44 ERA and 62 strikeouts in 10 starts during a season where the team holds a 17-33 record. Despite trade speculation, general manager Ben Cherington and team officials have denied any plans to move Skenes, confirming he is under team control through 2029 and central to the franchise's future. Skenes threw his first complete MLB game in a 1-0 loss to the Phillies, underscoring his strong performance amid the Pirates' offensive struggles. Run support has been minimal, but Skenes continues to impress on the mound. His relationship with LSU gymnast and Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover model Olivia Dunne has generated further media interest as she publicly supports him. The Pirates remain committed to building around Skenes despite the team's ongoing rebuild.