The baseball world is currently a powder keg of emotion after viral reports suggested a “blockbuster deal” was sending Paul Skenes to the New York Yankees. However, as of December 23, 2025, the “shockwaves” hitting the league are actually coming from the Pittsburgh Pirates’ definitive refusal to blink first.
Despite intense “pressure and opportunity” from the Bronx, Paul Skenes remains a Pirate. In fact, rather than tearing down their identity, the Pirates have pivoted toward an aggressive “Win Now” mode, centered entirely around their generational ace.
The “Unthinkable” Truth
While rumors claimed a deal was converging, recent developments have “shattered” that narrative:
- The Denials: Following his unanimous 2025 NL Cy Young win, Skenes went on the Dan Patrick Show to explicitly call the Yankees trade rumors “not true.” He reiterated his goal: “The goal is to win, and the goal is to win in Pittsburgh.”
- The Pirates’ Counter-Move: Proving they aren’t ready to blink, Pittsburgh pulled off their own blockbuster on December 22, 2025, acquiring two-time All-Star Brandon Lowe in a three-team trade. The move is a loud “statement of intent” that the team is surrounding Skenes with talent, not lottery tickets.
- The Price Tag: Insiders like Jon Heyman report that the Yankees were willing to discuss a massive package involving Spencer Jones and George Lombard Jr., but Pirates GM Ben Cherington has characterized the idea of trading Skenes as “insane.”
The Yankees’ Pivot
With the “Skenes Dream” on hold, the Yankees have been forced to address their rotation through more traditional means. Brian Cashman recently re-signed right-hander Paul Blackburn to a one-year deal and remains “heavily engaged” in the trade market for a starter—just not the one wearing No. 30 in Pittsburgh.
Social feeds are still “roaring” with 15,000,000 impressions as fans debate if the Pirates can truly build a contender before Skenes reaches free agency in 2030. For now, the “identity” of the Pirates is safe, and the Yankees’ search for a savior continues into the new year.
