Could the Cubs Pull Off a Blockbuster Trade for Paul Skenes? Here’s What It Might Take
Imagine Paul Skenes—baseball’s newest pitching phenom—taking the mound at Wrigley Field. Electric fastball. Dominant presence. Ace energy. It’s the kind of stuff Cubs fans dream about.
Now here’s the million-dollar question: Could the Cubs actually trade for him?
Let’s be clear—this wouldn’t just be a blockbuster. It would be the blockbuster. We’re talking franchise-altering, “ESPN breaks in during the 5th inning” level of news. But it’s not totally out of the realm of possibility if the Cubs are willing to swing big and empty the vault.
Let’s talk about how this could go down.
Why the Cubs Should Be Interested
The Cubs are stuck in that weird middle ground. Good enough to hang around the playoff picture, not quite elite. What they’re missing? A true No. 1 starter who can go toe-to-toe with anyone in October.
Enter Paul Skenes.
He’s already flashing elite velocity, nasty off-speed stuff, and the kind of confidence you don’t normally see from a guy who was in college last year. He’s the real deal—and he’s under team control for years to come.
If the Cubs are serious about competing, Skenes is the kind of guy you sell the farm for.
What Would It Take?
Let’s not kid ourselves—this would cost a ton. Skenes is 22, cheap, dominant, and just getting started. The Pirates aren’t looking to trade him, especially not within the division, but every GM has a price.
Here’s a hypothetical deal that might at least make Pittsburgh pick up the phone:
Trade Proposal
Cubs Get:
- RHP Paul Skenes
Pirates Get:
- OF Pete Crow-Armstrong (elite defensive prospect with upside)
- RHP Cade Horton (fast-rising pitching prospect)
- INF Matt Shaw (bat-first shortstop with big potential)
- RHP Ben Brown (near MLB-ready arm)
- OF Ian Happ (veteran outfielder with playoff experience and team control)
Why It Makes Sense (Sort Of)
From the Cubs’ POV:
This is a huge price—but it’s also a rare opportunity. You’re giving up a handful of promising players for a potential ace who’s already proven he can dominate at the highest level. Skenes + Steele + Hendricks? That’s a playoff rotation.
From the Pirates’ POV:
It’s painful, no doubt. But let’s say they don’t think they’ll contend before Skenes hits free agency. This kind of package gives them a ton of young talent, plus a clubhouse leader in Happ who’s under contract through 2026.
Would fans riot? Maybe. Would it restock the farm and reset the timeline? Definitely.
The In-Division Roadblock
One huge catch here: trades like this almost never happen within the same division. The idea of watching Skenes become a star for the Cubs would be hard for Pirates fans (and their front office) to stomach.
Still, never say never. If the Cubs overwhelm them with a ridiculous package—and Pittsburgh sees the long-term value—it could happen.
Final Thoughts
This isn’t just wild speculation. It’s the kind of bold move that turns contenders into champions. If Jed Hoyer and the Cubs want to make a statement and speed up the competitive timeline, going all-in on Paul Skenes might be the ultimate swing.
Would it be risky? Absolutely.
Would it be fun? Without question.
And hey, if you’re going to dream… dream big.