Paul Skenes Trade Rumors Spark Media Feud as Pirates Face Crucial Franchise Decision
The MLB trade rumor mill has ignited a firestorm—not just over a potential blockbuster move, but thanks to a feud between two prominent voices in baseball media. At the center of it all? Paul Skenes, the Pittsburgh Pirates’ flame-throwing phenom and one of the most electric pitching prospects in recent memory.
As speculation grows around the Pirates possibly trading Skenes for a massive return, ESPN insider Jeff Passan sparked controversy during an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show. Passan didn’t just question Pittsburgh’s long-term outlook—he went as far as to say that the Pirates don’t deserve Paul Skenes, criticizing the organization for lacking a plan to build a winning team. His blunt take: “What incentive does Paul Skenes have to extend with the Pirates when they haven’t shown the willingness or ability to get better?”
That jab didn’t sit well with former Marlins president David Samson, who fired back. “I am alleging that when Jeff Passan is carrying water for agenda-laden things… there is a level of bias,” Samson said, accusing Passan of unfairly targeting a small-market club.
The Stakes Are Real for Pittsburgh
Lost in the media clash is a fundamental question: Should the Pirates trade Skenes while his value is sky-high—or build their next generation around him?
Skenes is under team control through 2028, giving the Pirates a cost-controlled ace during his prime years. For a team that rarely splurges on top-tier free-agent pitchers, developing a talent like Skenes internally is a rare victory. He offers elite velocity, pinpoint control, and a bulldog mentality that could anchor a playoff rotation for years.
But there’s a caveat. If Pittsburgh’s front office doesn’t see a contending window opening soon, and a rival team is willing to part with multiple top-30 prospects and MLB-ready contributors, could they afford not to listen?
The Verdict? Hold—Unless It’s a King’s Ransom
Right now, it’s hard to justify moving Skenes unless the return is franchise-altering. In today’s league, elite young pitching is among the most valuable commodities—especially when it comes cheap. The Pirates have long struggled to develop true No. 1 starters. Now that they finally have one, the focus should be on building around Skenes, not cashing in for more question marks.
Still, the media bickering underscores a deeper issue: the skepticism surrounding small-market teams and their ability to retain stars. Whether Skenes becomes the face of a Pittsburgh renaissance or a trade headline in the making, one thing is clear—the Pirates are on the clock.