Paul Skenes’ Pirates Future Under Threat as Salary Concerns Raise Major Questions

The Pittsburgh Pirates face major financial questions regarding Paul Skenes as his arbitration eligibility approaches. Yardbarker reports that Skenes is projected by MLB Trade Rumors to earn around $7.2 million in 2027, nearly tripling his 2026 salary of just over $1 million. Reporter John Perrotto stated that Skenes' salary will soon exceed the Pirates' comfort zone, predicting he will likely play elsewhere by 2028.

Pittsburgh has 10 arbitration-eligible players projected to cost up to $28.7 million ahead of 2027, including Oneil Cruz and Jared Jones. Yardbarker notes that potential labor uncertainty surrounding the 2027 Collective Bargaining Agreement could further impact contract decisions, while rival franchises like the Los Angeles Dodgers could pursue Skenes via trade if the Pirates decline to commit long term.