Mets Predicted to Trade for Disgruntled $30M Flamethrower

Cy Young winner could replace Freddy Peralta on the Mets' roster.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 7:47pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a baseball pitcher's throwing motion, with sharp planes of navy, green, and orange overlapping to create a dynamic, abstract composition.A cubist interpretation of a star pitcher's explosive delivery, hinting at the high-stakes contract negotiations behind the scenes.Today in Pittsburgh

The Pittsburgh Pirates have recently extended their young phenom Konnor Griffin, but have yet to address the contract situation of their star flamethrower Paul Skenes. Griffin, who was just called up to the major leagues, will now be earning a significant salary from the Pirates organization, while Skenes' future remains uncertain.

Why it matters

The Mets are reportedly interested in acquiring Skenes, a Cy Young award winner, to bolster their pitching rotation and potentially replace Freddy Peralta. This potential trade could have major implications for both the Mets and Pirates as they look to improve their rosters for the upcoming season.

The details

The Pirates have been in contract negotiations with Skenes, who is owed a reported $30 million over the next few seasons. However, the two sides have yet to reach an agreement, leading to speculation that the Pirates may look to trade the star pitcher. The Mets, who are in need of pitching depth, have emerged as a potential suitor for Skenes' services.

  • The Pirates recently extended young phenom Konnor Griffin before addressing flamethrower Paul Skenes' contract situation.
  • Rookie shortstop Griffin will now be earning a significant salary from the Pirates organization.

The players

Konnor Griffin

A young phenom shortstop who was recently called up to the major leagues by the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Paul Skenes

A star flamethrower pitcher for the Pittsburgh Pirates who is owed $30 million over the next few seasons, but has yet to reach an agreement on a contract extension with the team.

Freddy Peralta

A pitcher for the New York Mets who the team may look to replace with Skenes if they are able to acquire him in a trade.

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What they’re saying

“I'm not going to comment on any sort of extension or contract talks,”

— Konnor Griffin, Rookie Shortstop

What’s next

The Mets and Pirates are expected to continue negotiations over a potential trade for Skenes, with the Mets looking to bolster their pitching rotation for the upcoming season.

The takeaway

This potential trade between the Mets and Pirates highlights the ongoing contract negotiations and roster moves happening across Major League Baseball as teams look to position themselves for success in the coming season.