Washington-Pirates Trade Proposal Could Land Nationals Starting Pitcher

Washington-Pirates Trade Proposal Could Land Nationals Starting Pitcher Paul Skenes

The Washington Nationals are in a strong position to compete for one of baseball’s top pitching prospects, Paul Skenes, and should keep a close eye on his situation with the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Washington has done a solid job of laying the groundwork for their next championship-contending team, with several young All-Stars emerging in recent years. Shortstop CJ Abrams reached All-Star status in 2024, and other teammates are expected to follow suit in 2025. Left fielder James Wood is rapidly becoming one of the game’s most feared power hitters, and he’s just beginning to tap into his potential. On the mound, MacKenzie Gore is living up to his ace potential, currently leading MLB in strikeouts and showing the traits of a future frontline starter.

With a clean payroll and a deep, well-regarded farm system, the Nationals are well-positioned to make a significant move, whether through free agency or a major trade. One player they should closely monitor is Pirates’ starting pitcher Paul Skenes.

The reigning National League Rookie of the Year, Skenes has quickly established himself as one of the best pitchers in the game. He’s a rare workhorse with elite stuff and generational talent. It’s curious why the Pirates might even consider trading him, especially given their struggles to develop position players and their reluctance to spend money. This raises the question of whether the Pirates will ever build a competitive team around Skenes.

What Could the Nationals Offer in a Trade for Paul Skenes?

Given Pittsburgh’s lack of financial flexibility, Washington could offer a trade package that would appeal to the Pirates.

A key piece could be Dylan Crews, selected just behind Skenes in the 2023 MLB Draft and a former LSU teammate. While Crews has struggled a bit at the Major League level, he still has the potential to become a multi-time All-Star and a true five-tool player.

Additionally, Seaver King could be included in the package, as the Pirates have struggled to find a long-term solution at shortstop. If Pittsburgh is looking for more pitching, the Nationals have young arms like Travis Sykora and Jarlin Susana, who could serve as the centerpiece of a trade.

Washington’s trade of Juan Soto to the San Diego Padres, which netted a significant return despite Soto having multiple years of control, sets a precedent for how much the Nationals are willing to offer for a young, high-caliber player like Skenes. With Skenes under team control for five more years, he would likely be worth more than the package the Padres gave up for Soto.

Given the Pirates’ need for outfield help, Robert Hassell III and Daylen Lile—both of whom made their MLB debuts recently—could also be part of the mix. A trade package that includes Crews, King, one of Sykora or Susana, and one of Hassell or Lile might be enough to entice the Pirates into serious negotiations.

For Washington, adding Skenes alongside Gore would give them one of the most promising young pitching duos in baseball, making them a major contender in the coming years.