Despite his immense value to the Pittsburgh Pirates, speculation about the long-term future of ace Paul Skenes persists, largely due to the team’s struggles. The 23-year-old phenom is considered one of the best pitchers in baseball and is under team control until 2030, giving the Pirates a franchise cornerstone for years to come.
However, as the team heads toward a likely last-place finish in the National League Central, questions about organizational direction are intensifying. Amidst discussions of a potential managerial change, some analysts believe the key to securing Skenes’s long-term commitment is to involve him in the team’s next major decision.
Writing for FanSided, Jake Elman suggested the Pirates should consult Skenes and his teammates on the selection of a new manager. Elman argues the front office should inquire whether the clubhouse would prefer a manager with a hitting or pitching background and gauge their interest in an experienced leader like Don Mattingly or Walt Weiss.
“These are admittedly basic questions, but they’re ones that the Pirates need to discuss with Skenes,” Elman wrote. “Pittsburgh has made it clear that they don’t intend to trade their ace anytime soon, despite the lofty haul they’d likely receive in return.”
Mattingly, a former New York Yankees star, currently serves as the bench coach for the Toronto Blue Jays. He has extensive managerial experience, having previously led the Los Angeles Dodgers and Miami Marlins. While his interest in returning to a full-time manager role is unknown, the suggestion highlights a potential strategy for Pittsburgh to build its future around its young superstar.
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