Paul Skenes laughs at trade noise while Pirates send a loud message to league

Paul Skenes, the 22-year-old Pittsburgh Pirates pitching sensation, had no idea that people were discussing a trade. When someone informed him what the Pirates' general manager stated regarding how trading him wasn't even on the table he just laughed. Skenes is already an integral piece of the Pirates' future. Even though the team is at the bottom of the standings, they see Skenes as a player to construct around and not a trade-off.


Ben Cherington shuts down any trade speculation


Pirates general manager Ben Cherington was direct in his statement. In a media session, he mentioned that trading Skenes was "not at all part of the conversation." This was done to shut down speculation before it took hold.


Cherington knows how highly Skenes is rated not only for the mound but for the entire direction of the franchise. The team may be in last place now, but with young stars like Skenes, the future looks more promising.

Pirates ace Paul Skenes on the idea the last-place club should trade him: 'Anybody can play GM' https://t.co/zp7vCJlMaX

— ESPN 690 (@ESPN690Jax) May 24, 2025

Skenes has impressed all since joining the big leagues. His fastball is good, his control is better, and supporters are thrilled every time he pitches.


Even though the Pirates require assistance with their batting order, Cherington expressed that trading away their top young pitcher is not an option. The Pirates are planning to construct a team around Skenes, with better hitters and a solid defense to support him.



Also Read: MLB Insider Gives Brutal Opinion On Paul Skenes Trade Rumors


Paul Skenes focused on game not on noise

When the writers informed Skenes of the general manager's remarks, he thought the possibility of a trade humorous. Skenes is concerned with his pitching, his workout, and assisting his team in its development.



He's not concerned with off-field chatter or rumors of trade. At a very young age, he's demonstrating the maturity of a veteran player. It's precisely that sort of mentality combined with his talent that the Pirates are eager to retain.



The Pirates realize that pitchers like Skenes don't grow on trees. Although they might still be building, having a legitimate ace on the mound sets them up well.



Paul Skenes is here to stay, at least for the present moment and he's loving every second of it.