It was reported by Randy Miller of NJ.com that Pittsburgh Pirates starter Paul Skenes wants to play for the New York Yankees, according to a teammate of his, when speaking to Miller.
It remains uncertain what the truth behind those comments is, but they could make some sense.
Considering the Yankees are one of the most storied organizations in sports history, and the Pirates have struggled with Skenes, despite him being one of the best starters in Major League Baseball, and even likely going down as a historic pitcher one day, the idea of playing for the Yankees intrigues many.
"Trust me, he wants to play for the Yankees. I've heard him say it multiple times,” his teammate said.
Is Paul Skenes a realistic player Yankees can target?
However, it doesn't seem like the Yankees are going to have much of an opportunity to land someone like Skenes. From the Pirates' perspective, even if the team continues to struggle moving forward, there’s no reason to move on from one of the best starters in Major League Baseball, and arguably one of the best young starters in baseball history.
According to Pirates general manager Ben Cherington, that isn't in the works as of now.
"He's going to be a Pirate in 2026," Cherington said.
It's possible that the Yankees could have an opportunity to trade for Skenes in the future, but it's also important to note that New York's farm system isn't exactly loaded with top-end talent.
If a trade were to happen for any team in the league, there are plenty of better offers that’d be out there than what the Yankees could give up.
More Yankees news:
- Devin Williams reveals feelings about free agent return to New York
- Yankees predicted to trade for $22.5 million Cy Young to create super rotation, would headline with Gerrit Cole
- Anthony Volpe undergoes shoulder surgery amid injury-plagued season
- Yankees' former home run champion signs new contract in Japan