Pirates Face Pressure to Consult Paul Skenes on Managerial Hire, Don Mattingly Emerges as Potential Candidate
PITTSBURGH – The Pittsburgh Pirates are reportedly facing external pressure to involve ace pitcher Paul Skenes in the decision-making process for their next manager, with some suggesting his input could be crucial to retaining the young star. Despite consistent trade rumors, the pirates have publicly stated their intention to hold onto Skenes, who won’t reach free agency until 2030, but questions surrounding the team’s direction-including a likely fifth-place finish in the National League Central and a mid-season managerial firing-have fueled speculation about his long-term happiness in Pittsburgh.
The suggestion to include Skenes in the managerial search stems from concerns about the team’s future and a desire to demonstrate commitment to its star player. jake Elman of FanSided proposed the Pirates should directly solicit Skenes’ preferences regarding the next manager’s qualities, specifically inquiring weather the clubhouse leans towards a hitting- or pitching-oriented leader. Elman also suggested gauging Skenes’ reaction to potential experienced candidates like former New York Yankees captain Don Mattingly.
Mattingly, currently a bench coach for the Toronto Blue Jays, has prior managerial experience with the Miami Marlins and Los Angeles Dodgers. While his desire to return to full-time management remains uncertain, he has been identified as a potential fit for the Pirates. According to Elman, “These are admittedly basic questions, but they’re ones that the Pirates need to discuss with Skenes. 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.”
The Pirates currently hold the best pitching arm in Major League Baseball with the 23-year-old Skenes. The team’s willingness to consider Skenes’ input could signal a shift towards greater player involvement in key organizational decisions.
