Paul Skenes, who debuted in Major League Baseball (MLB) just over a year ago, has already become the center of trade discussions amid a challenging season for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Currently sitting at the bottom of the National League Central with a record of 16-33, the Pirates face an uphill battle to make the playoffs after last qualifying in 2016. Though Skenes has performed exceptionally, boasting a 2.12 ERA—the lowest for a pitcher in their first 33 starts since the statistic became official in 1912—his presence may lead to speculation about a potential move before the trade deadline. With Skenes not becoming arbitration-eligible until 2027 and the Pirates being recognized as a frugal franchise, the team must carefully evaluate their options concerning the young player's future.

ESPN's Jeff Passan noted that several teams will likely inquire about Skenes as the trade deadline approaches. While a trade may seem unlikely, it opens up a conversation about which franchises might be able to pursue him, given his considerable trade value. Baseball Trade Values estimates Skenes' surplus value at approximately $94.8 million, which significantly exceeds the value of some key trades made in recent years, such as Garrett Crochet's move from the Chicago White Sox. For Pittsburgh, the ideal scenario for trading Skenes would involve acquiring multiple elite young talents in return, especially considering the team's budget constraints and need for young, affordable players.

Considering potential suitors, the Cleveland Guardians and Minnesota Twins emerge as two franchises with promising prospects who may be interested in Skenes. However, both teams have historically hesitated to make significant investments and are also under financial scrutiny. Other organizations, such as the New York Mets and New York Yankees, could show interest, yet both lack elite prospects to entice the Pirates adequately. The Texas Rangers could be players due to their prospect strength, but questions around the development and health of their pitching staff may make this option less appealing. On the other hand, trade scenarios involving teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers, San Diego Padres, Philadelphia Phillies, Chicago Cubs, Detroit Tigers, Baltimore Orioles, and Boston Red Sox could lead to intriguing discussions about potential packages centered around Skenes.

In a potential deal with the Dodgers, the Pirates could receive outfielders Josue De Paula and Dalton Rushing, along with shortstop Alex Freeland. This move would enrich the Pirates' prospect pool while allowing the Dodgers to address immediate rotation needs due to injuries. Conversely, the Padres may offer elite talent like shortstop Leo De Vries and catcher Ethan Salas, although questions remain regarding the depth and development of their own prospects. Trade proposals with the Phillies could leverage their young arms, such as Andrew Painter, who could help build a formidable pitching staff alongside Skenes or serve as a direct replacement.

Other teams, like the Chicago Cubs, also present trade opportunities, particularly with an eye on reshaping their rotation after injuries to major pitchers such as Justin Steele. The Detroit Tigers might consider Skenes to enhance their burgeoning rotation, pairing him with existing talents. The Baltimore Orioles, seeking to stabilize a struggling rotation, could dangle pitchers like Grayson Rodriguez alongside promising prospects, while the Boston Red Sox could propose a trade that includes top prospect Roman Anthony.

Ultimately, although the Pirates may struggle with the decision to trade a young star like Skenes, the opportunity to reshape their franchise with multiple elite prospects may be an avenue worth exploring, considering their current standing in the league.