Pittsburgh Pirates fans will not love what a reporter said when referring to ace pitcher Paul Skenes during Monday’s MLB All-Star media availability in Philadelphia.
While the reigning National League Cy Young Award winner was tackling questions from the media, a reporter in the background was heard saying, “Just got the best interview of all time with Paul Skenes. Future Yankee.”
Skenes apparently heard the comment. He looked confused upon hearing it, though he did not seem to take it seriously, cracking a smile as he looked toward the reporters.
Here is the video that captured the reporter’s remark and Skenes’ reaction to it.
Reporter: "Just got the best interview of all time with Paul Skenes. Future Yankee."
— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) July 13, 2026
Paul Skenes: *Confused* 😂 pic.twitter.com/77VD2HSRsl
While the Los Angeles Dodgers may have taken over the mantle of MLB’s “Evil Empire” from the New York Yankees, New York remains a team that is always in the conversation whenever a star player becomes available via trade or free agency.
But there is no immediate reason for Pirates fans to be wary of the Yankees or other teams lurking as potential suitors for Skenes.
The 24-year-old right-hander still has three years of arbitration eligibility remaining and will not become a free agent until 2029.
Skenes entered the All-Star break with an 8-8 record and a 3.57 ERA through 20 starts so far in the 2026 season.
