Recent reports have surfaced suggesting a potential blockbuster trade between the Chicago Cubs and the Pittsburgh Pirates, involving the highly touted pitcher Paul Skenes. However, both Skenes and Pirates General Manager Ben Cherington have firmly dismissed these rumors.
Skenes, the reigning National League Rookie of the Year, has been a standout performer for the Pirates, boasting a 2.36 ERA and 70 strikeouts over 68⅔ innings in the 2025 season. Despite the Pirates’ struggles with an 18–34 record, Skenes’ individual performance has remained impressive. He is under team control until 2030 and is not eligible for arbitration until 2027 .
Pirates General Manager Ben Cherington has unequivocally stated that trading Skenes is “not part of the conversation at all,” emphasizing the team’s commitment to building around their young star . Skenes himself has also dismissed the trade speculation, focusing instead on his performance and the team’s development .
While the Cubs have been linked to Skenes in trade discussions, these reports are speculative and not based on official statements from either team. As of now, there is no indication that the Pirates are considering trading their ace pitcher.
For fans interested in seeing Skenes in action, the Cubs and Pirates are scheduled to face each other multiple times this season, including games on June 12, 13, and 14 at Wrigley Field .
