3 Best Trade Fits for Pirates Superstar Paul Skenes

While Pittsburgh Pirates general manager Ben Cherington has stated that superstar right-hander Paul Skenes won't be traded in the immediate future, baseball analysts continue to speculate about potential destinations should the Pirates ever entertain offers for their prized pitcher. The 2024 National League Rookie of the Year and 2025 NL Cy Young Award winner has established himself as arguably the best right-handed pitcher in MLB through his first two seasons, making him one of the most valuable trade assets in recent baseball history.

Atlanta Braves: Proven Contender with Development Track Record

The Atlanta Braves represent an intriguing potential destination for Skenes, meeting three critical requirements for any team pursuing the ace pitcher. First, Atlanta possesses a proven roster that Skenes could elevate to championship contention. Second, the Braves maintain a reputable farm system capable of supplying the prospect capital necessary for such a blockbuster trade. Third, Atlanta has demonstrated consistent success in developing young players throughout their organization.

Through his first 55 MLB starts, Skenes has compiled remarkable statistics including a combined 1.96 ERA, 0.95 WHIP, and 386 strikeouts across 320.2 innings pitched. His ability to limit baserunners and work deep into games would provide Atlanta with a true ace to anchor a rotation that already features Spencer Strider, Chris Sale, and Reynaldo Lopez when healthy. Skenes would represent the Braves' best starting pitcher since their legendary rotation of Greg Maddux, John Smoltz, and Tom Glavine.

Houston Astros: Reestablishing AL Dominance

The Houston Astros present another compelling trade partner, particularly as the franchise seeks to reestablish its position as an American League powerhouse. After missing the playoffs for the first time in nine years and failing to win a playoff series since 2023, Houston faces increasing pressure to make significant roster improvements. Their starting rotation finished tied for 13th in MLB with a 3.97 ERA last season, highlighting the need for rotation reinforcement.

Skenes would immediately become the cornerstone of Houston's pitching staff, pairing with emerging star Hunter Brown to form one of baseball's most formidable one-two pitching combinations. His diverse arsenal featuring an overpowering four-seam fastball, sweeper, split-finger fastball, changeup, and sinker would give the Astros the ace they need to reclaim dominance in the competitive AL West division.

New York Mets: Financial Power and Ace Void

The New York Mets emerge as perhaps the most logical destination for Skenes, combining significant financial resources with a clear need for frontline starting pitching. The Mets' rotation posted a 4.13 ERA last season, ranking 18th in MLB and underscoring their lack of a proven ace. Under owner Steve Cohen's leadership, the Mets have demonstrated willingness to spend aggressively, as evidenced by their record-setting $765 million contract with outfielder Juan Soto.

New York's recent reliance on free-agent acquisitions rather than prospect-depleting trades means they maintain the farm system depth necessary to compete for a player of Skenes' caliber. The Mets represent one of the few teams capable of both meeting Pittsburgh's prospect demands and eventually signing Skenes to a long-term extension, making them particularly well-positioned to pursue such a franchise-altering transaction.

While the Pirates currently maintain they won't trade their young superstar, the reality of baseball economics suggests that at some point Pittsburgh may need to consider offers as Skenes approaches free agency. Each of these three teams offers unique advantages: Atlanta provides proven player development, Houston offers American League contention potential, and New York combines financial might with organizational need. Any trade package would likely require at least five top prospects or former first-round picks, reflecting Skenes' extraordinary value as one of baseball's premier young talents.