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Pirates Eye Skenes in Pitching-Rich Draft

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Saturday, January 31st 2026 at 15:12 GMT by FanSided
      Locales: CANADA, UNITED STATES

A Pitching-Rich Draft Class & The Pirates' Urgent Need

This year's draft is particularly notable for its depth of pitching talent, a boon for a Pirates organization desperately seeking to rebuild its pitching staff. After years of struggles, the Pirates recognize the necessity of injecting elite arms into their system. Having the No. 1 pick provides a unique opportunity to secure a potential ace, and Skenes, with his impressive velocity and developing arsenal, represents precisely that. While other talented pitchers will undoubtedly be available, Skenes has consistently stood out as the consensus top prospect.

However, the path to securing Skenes isn't necessarily straightforward. The Pirates are reportedly considering all options, including the possibility of trading the No. 1 overall pick. This would only occur if a truly "substantial" offer presents itself - a package of proven major league talent that would significantly accelerate the Pirates' rebuilding timeline. While trading the pick isn't the preferred outcome, the front office is obligated to explore all avenues to maximize the return on their investment.

What Makes Paul Skenes Special?

Skenes isn't just a hard thrower; he's a complete package. Scouts rave about his fastball, which routinely sits in the mid-to-upper 90s, and his developing secondary pitches, including a devastating slider and a promising changeup. Beyond the raw stuff, Skenes demonstrates excellent command and a competitive fire that sets him apart. His college statistics back up the hype, consistently showcasing dominant performances against some of the nation's top competition. He's a physical specimen with a repeatable delivery, traits that project well to the professional level.

The pressure of being a potential No. 1 pick is immense, but Skenes appears to be handling it with poise. This maturity suggests he's well-equipped to handle the scrutiny and expectations that come with playing in a major league market like Pittsburgh. The Pirates are known for their player development programs, and Skenes, with his work ethic and coachability, seems like a perfect fit for the organization.

Beyond Skenes: Contingency Plans for Pittsburgh

Despite their clear preference for Skenes, the Pirates are diligently scouting other top pitching prospects in anticipation of various scenarios. If Skenes somehow slips past them (unlikely, but not impossible), names like Chase Burns (Wake Forest) and Hagen Smith (Baylor) are expected to be high on their list. These pitchers also offer exciting upside, providing the Pirates with viable alternatives should they choose not to select Skenes or if another team makes an irresistible trade offer.

The next few months will be crucial as the draft approaches. The Pirates will continue to monitor Skenes' performance, assess the market for potential trades, and refine their draft strategy. Regardless of their final decision, the organization is committed to bolstering its pitching staff and building a sustainable contender. But right now, all signs point towards Paul Skenes being the future of the Pirates' rotation.