Skenes Trade? Pirates GM Ben Cherington Says Absolutely Not

David

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Post on May 25, 2025

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Skenes Trade? Pirates GM Ben Cherington Says Absolutely Not

Pittsburgh Pirates' general manager Ben Cherington emphatically shut down any speculation surrounding a potential trade of their highly touted pitching prospect, Paul Skenes. The statement, made during a recent press conference, sends a clear message: Skenes is not available, regardless of the offer. This declaration comes amidst a whirlwind of offseason rumors linking the top pitching prospect to several contending teams desperate for pitching depth.

The Pirates, currently in a rebuilding phase, have carefully nurtured Skenes since drafting him first overall in the 2023 MLB Draft. His exceptional talent and potential have already generated significant buzz, even before stepping onto a major league field. Cherington's firm stance underscores the organization's commitment to Skenes and their long-term vision for success.

<h3>Why the Pirates are Holding onto Skenes</h3>

Several factors contribute to Cherington's unwavering refusal to even consider trading Skenes. Firstly, he represents the future of the Pirates' pitching rotation. Skenes's overpowering fastball and devastating breaking pitches project him as a potential ace, a crucial piece in the team's plan to contend in the coming years. Trading him would be a significant setback to their rebuilding efforts.

Secondly, the Pirates are acutely aware of Skenes's immense value. While they aren't actively shopping him, any potential trade would require an overwhelming return—a package likely too substantial for most teams to offer. This high asking price acts as a natural deterrent, reinforcing Cherington's "absolutely not" declaration.

Finally, the organization understands the importance of retaining promising young talent. Keeping Skenes not only bolsters the team’s on-field potential but also boosts fan morale and attracts other young players. This strategy is key to cultivating a winning culture within the organization.

<h3>The Impact of Cherington's Statement</h3>

Cherington's definitive statement effectively ends the speculation surrounding a Skenes trade, at least for the foreseeable future. This clarity benefits both the team and its fans, providing stability and focusing attention on the upcoming season. For other MLB teams hoping to acquire a top-tier pitching prospect, this serves as a stark reminder of the difficulty in acquiring elite talent.

While the Pirates' rebuilding process may take time, their commitment to players like Skenes indicates a long-term strategy focused on sustainable success. This approach, coupled with strong scouting and player development, could propel the Pirates back into contention sooner than many anticipate.

<h3>Looking Ahead: Skenes and the Pirates' Future</h3>

The focus now shifts to Skenes’ development within the Pirates' organization. His progress through the minor leagues will be closely monitored, with expectations running high. While his major league debut timeline remains uncertain, Cherington's unwavering support suggests a patient, measured approach, prioritizing Skenes's long-term health and development over rushing his ascension to the big leagues. This cautious strategy could ultimately pay off handsomely for the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Keywords: Paul Skenes, Pittsburgh Pirates, Ben Cherington, MLB Trade Rumors, MLB Draft, Baseball Prospects, Pitching Prospect, Pirates Rebuild, Skenes Trade, MLB News

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