Despite being just over a year since his MLB debut, discussions around Paul Skenes and potential trade scenarios have emerged, indicative of the Pittsburgh Pirates' precarious situation. Presently, the Pirates stand at a disappointing 16-33, sitting last in the National League Central. With their playoff aspirations in jeopardy, and having not reached the postseason since 2016, the franchise appears to be on track for another missed opportunity despite Skenes' impressive performance. The notion of the Pirates securing a contract extension for Skenes seems highly speculative given the franchise's history of frugality, further amplified by industry commentary suggesting that Skenes could be a candidate for a substantial $400 million deal.

Jeff Passan of ESPN recently indicated that there will be inquiries about Skenes as the trade deadline approaches, noting, 'There are teams that already are going to ask about Paul Skenes at the trade deadline this year.' While the likelihood of Skenes being traded this summer remains low, it invites speculation regarding potential trade partners. An assessment of Skenes' trade value reveals that it is significant; his 2.12 ERA represents the lowest for any pitcher through their first 33 starts since earned run average became an official statistic in 1912. As the reigning 2024 NL Rookie of the Year, Skenes, who will turn 23 on May 29, is not arbitration-eligible until 2027 and will not reach free agency until after the 2029 season. Given the current landscape of starting pitching in MLB, which is less than robust, Skenes' value is even more pronounced.

Baseball Trade Values places Skenes' surplus value at an estimated $94.8 million, nearly double that of Garrett Crochet at the time of his trade to the Chicago White Sox, who received four top prospects in return, two of which ranked in MLB Pipeline's top 100. For the Pirates to entertain moving Skenes, they would require an offer that is highly advantageous to them. Without a pressing obligation to trade him, Pittsburgh could theoretically elevate their asking price. Any rationale behind trading Skenes would necessitate transforming one elite young player into multiple elite young prospects. Given the franchise's financial constraints, broadening their roster with a diverse pool of young, cost-effective talent remains a critical avenue for future success.