Paul Skenes, the former first overall pick, is 2-1 with a 5.25 ERA in 3 starts this season with the Pirates.
What happened?
The New York Yankees had been linked to Skenes, although Pittsburgh has shown no desire to trade him.
Michael Kay, the Yankees announcer, shot down the potential trade, asking if the Pirates would trade Skenes when they still have control of him for four years.
Kay described Skenes as "filthy" and "disgusting how good he is".
Why it matters for Paul Skenes
Skenes is one of the best pitchers in all of baseball and won the NL CY Young Award last season.
The Pirates did spend more money this offseason to help improve the team and potentially earn a playoff berth.
Skenes is focused on winning and hasn't thought about an extension, instead taking the ball and pitching for the Pirates.
What comes next?
Ahead of the 2026 MLB season, MLB insider Jon Heyman revealed the Yankees tried to trade for Skenes, but the Pirates didn't even listen to the offer.
Former MLB general manager Jim Bowden believes the Pirates should have traded Skenes to the Yankees this offseason.
Bowden thinks the Pirates should have accepted a trade package involving Cam Schlittler, George Lombard Jr., Spencer Jones, and Carlos Lagrange.
Skenes said the group that the Pirates have from last year is going to be better than they were last year, with more experience and good additions to the coaching staff.