Pittsburgh Pirates Confirm Paul Skenes Off-Limits Amid 2025 Trade Deadline

Despite the Pittsburgh Pirates' struggles in the 2025 MLB season, the team has made it clear that they have no intention of trading their ace pitcher, Paul Skenes. Jeff Passan, ESPN's senior MLB insider, emphasized on the Pat McAfee Show that Skenes, who has a strong track record including a 1.96 ERA in 2024 and a 2.15 ERA in the current season, remains a cornerstone for the Pirates' future. The Pirates, holding a poor record and last place in the NL Central, are reportedly willing to trade many other players but are committed to building around Skenes and fellow star Oneil Cruz. Trade rumors persist, with proposals from other teams like the Dodgers and Cardinals, but these are considered unrealistic or strategically unwise given Skenes' value and contract status, which gives the Pirates five more years of control. Analysts note that while the Pirates’ current team performance is disappointing, the front office's decision to retain Skenes reflects a long-term rebuilding strategy rather than a short-term trade to contending teams. Thus, fans can expect Skenes to remain in Pittsburgh as the franchise attempts to improve its roster through other moves.