Just hours before receiving the most prestigious pitching award in baseball, Paul Skenes found himself confronting distracting and unfounded speculation about his future with the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Rumours Surface on Award Night
The newly-crowned Cy Young winner has openly admitted his frustration after rumours of a potential trade to the New York Yankees emerged shortly before he was honoured. Paul Skenes, who is dating former LSU gymnast Livvy Dunne, was enjoying a remarkable season that included another All-Star selection, but his team's broader struggles led some to speculate he was seeking an exit.
Speaking at a Raising Cane's event in Palm Beach, Florida, where he was helping raise money for the Gary Sinise Foundation, Skenes directly addressed the gossip. He expressed his initial irritation but was quick to dismiss its significance.
Clearing the Air with Pittsburgh
When questioned about the rumour, Skenes told the Daily Mail: 'There's a reason Jeff Passan didn't write about, I'll say that.' He went on to clarify his position, stating, 'Rumours are rumours, I was frustrated for a little bit, but it doesn't really matter. I've had some time to think about it, but I'm glad I had the opportunity to speak to the Pittsburgh media and clear the air over nothing, basically.'
He concluded with a characteristically pragmatic remark: 'It is what it is.' This statement served as a definitive dismissal of the trade talks, reinforcing his focus on his current club.
Focus Remains on the Pirates
By pouring cold water on the speculation, Skenes has made it clear that his priorities lie with the Pittsburgh Pirates. The pitcher, who has made a blistering start to his MLB career, used the opportunity to reaffirm his commitment to the team and its fans, ensuring the spotlight remained on his Cy Young achievement rather than off-field gossip.
His comments have successfully shifted the narrative back to his on-field excellence and his charitable efforts, leaving the unfounded rumours firmly in the past.
