The Detroit Tigers remain atop MLB standings and are likely to make a deep playoff run, but their chances may depend on acquiring ace pitcher Paul Skenes. The Pittsburgh Pirates, struggling with a 15.5-game deficit, may consider trading Skenes to get a haul for the young star.
Skenes has impressed with a 2.03 ERA in 35 games and could be a key addition for Detroit. Former Cincinnati Reds general manager Jim Bowden proposed a trade package that includes outfielder Max Clark, shortstop Bryce Rainer, and right-handed pitchers Jaden Hamm and Owen Hall to lure Skenes away from the Pirates.
However, sending four of the Tigers’ top-10 prospects would be steep, but Skenes offers over four years of team control. His arrival behind Tarik Skubal could make a postseason run more lethal for Detroit, especially with uncertainty surrounding Skubal’s future contract with the team.
As the trade deadline approaches, the Tigers may need to make a bold move to secure Skenes. They are currently +350 on bet365 to win the AL Pennant.
Source: https://www.mlive.com/tigers/2025/05/what-a-paul-skenes-trade-package-from-tigers-could-look-like.html