location_on Home keyboard_arrow_right MLB keyboard_arrow_right Content

Pirates GM Ben Cherington Ends Paul Skenes Trade Speculation

MLB access_alarms2025-05-24 08:39:32 visibility18 text_decrease title text_increase

FEEL UNSTOPPABLE IN GEAR THAT MOVES WITH YOU.

From lightweight running shorts to moisture-repellent jackets – every piece is crafted for peak performance and head-turning style.

Need sports gear? Get it on sale now – discounts you can’t resist! <--Click

Table of Contents

h2>Rumors Quickly Shut Down

As the Pittsburgh Pirates prepared to face the Milwaukee Brewers on May 23, General Manager Ben Cherington made his position clear regarding trade talks involving pitching phenom Paul Skenes: "No, it's not part of the conversation at all." This definitive statement comes amid growing speculation about the 22-year-old ace's future with the struggling franchise.

The Skenes Effect

Since being drafted first overall in 2023, Skenes has exceeded expectations:
- 2.12 ERA through 33 career starts
- 232 strikeouts in 195.2 innings pitched
- 2024 NL All-Star selection
- 3rd place in 2024 NL Cy Young voting

His 2025 performance (2.44 ERA, 62 Ks in 10 starts) continues to draw national attention, making him one of MLB's most valuable young assets.

Pirates GM Ben Cherington Squashes Paul Skenes Trade Talk: "It's Not Part of the Conversation"

Contract Value vs. Team Performance

According to Baseball Trade Values, Skenes' surplus value through 2029 is estimated at $116 million. While this makes him theoretically tradeable, Cherington emphasizes the Pirates' commitment to building around their young core. The team currently holds MLB's:
- 4th-worst record (17-34)
- 28th-ranked offense
- 25th-ranked bullpen

Financial Considerations

With a $91.3 million payroll (26th in MLB) and six years of team control remaining on Skenes' contract, Pittsburgh faces pressure to either:
1. Invest in supporting talent
2. Develop existing prospects
3. Face continued fan frustration

July 31 Deadline Implications

The approaching trade deadline creates urgency for Pittsburgh's front office. While contenders like Atlanta and Los Angeles could benefit from adding Skenes, any potential deal would require:
- Multiple top-tier prospects
- Immediate MLB-ready talent
- Long-term organizational value

Franchise Crossroads

Pittsburgh's strategy appears focused on pairing Skenes with prospects like Bubba Chandler, despite:
- No playoff appearances since 2015
- Declining attendance figures
- Growing division deficits

Cherington's public stance reflects organizational confidence, but the coming months will test whether this approach can translate to on-field success. As the deadline approaches, the Pirates must demonstrate tangible progress or risk facing renewed calls for major changes.