Pirates GM Cherington: Trading Paul Skenes Is Off The Table

David

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Post on May 24, 2025

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Pirates GM Cherington: Trading Paul Skenes Is Off the Table

Pittsburgh Pirates General Manager Ben Cherington has emphatically stated that trading highly touted pitching prospect Paul Skenes is not an option. This declaration comes amidst a flurry of speculation surrounding the Pirates’ potential moves ahead of the MLB trade deadline and beyond. The team's commitment to Skenes signals a long-term vision focused on building a winning franchise around its young, burgeoning talent.

The news effectively shuts down any rumors suggesting Skenes could be moved for established stars or to acquire immediate impact players. This decision underscores the Pirates' belief in Skenes' potential to be a cornerstone of their rotation for years to come. His dominant performance in the minor leagues, coupled with his electric fastball and refined arsenal, has cemented his status as one of baseball's top prospects.

<h3>Skenes' Stellar Minor League Performance</h3>

Skenes' rapid ascension through the minor leagues has been nothing short of spectacular. He's consistently outperformed expectations, showcasing an impressive command and control that belies his relative inexperience. His performances have garnered significant attention from scouts and analysts alike, solidifying his place at the top of prospect rankings. This kind of dominance rarely translates directly to major league success, but the Pirates clearly see the potential for Skenes to become a franchise ace.

• Exceptional Velocity: Skenes' fastball consistently sits in the mid- to upper-90s mph, regularly touching triple digits.
• Sharp Breaking Balls: He complements his blistering fastball with a devastating slider and curveball, giving hitters very little room to breathe.
• Improved Control: While his control was a minor concern early in his career, he's shown significant improvements, indicating a high baseball IQ.

<h3>Long-Term Strategy for the Pirates</h3>

Cherington's decision to take Skenes off the trade block reinforces the Pirates' commitment to their long-term rebuilding plan. Rather than chasing short-term wins through trades, the organization is prioritizing the development of its young core, with Skenes as a key component. This approach demonstrates a patient, strategic approach that is increasingly common among teams aiming for sustained success.

This strategy is reminiscent of other successful rebuilds in baseball, where teams prioritized developing top prospects before making significant acquisitions to solidify their roster. The Houston Astros' success, for example, is largely attributed to their commitment to a long-term vision focused on player development.

<h3>What This Means for the Pirates' Future</h3>

The decision to retain Skenes signifies a pivotal moment for the Pittsburgh Pirates. It suggests a belief in their current trajectory and a commitment to cultivating a winning culture from within. While fans might have desired a more immediate impact player, the long-term benefits of keeping Skenes far outweigh any short-term gains from a potential trade.

The coming months and years will be crucial in determining the success of this strategy. However, with Skenes anchoring the rotation, the future looks bright for the Pittsburgh Pirates. The team's commitment to player development sends a clear message: the era of rebuilding is ending, and a new era of contention is on the horizon.

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