The New York Yankees remain optimistic about trading for Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes, MLB’s top arm, with his girlfriend Livvy Dunne’s recent Manhattan property purchase playing a key role in their confidence.
Yankees’ Trade Pursuit for Cy Young Winner
Paul Skenes, the 23-year-old Cy Young award recipient, has quickly risen as one of baseball’s elite pitchers since joining the Pirates. Despite his talent, the Pirates continue to face challenges, fueling speculation that a trade is inevitable.
Yankees officials believe Skenes harbors interest in playing in the Bronx. This optimism stems partly from Dunne’s acquisition of a $2 million apartment in Manhattan’s West Village. She also toured Babe Ruth’s former residence prior to the purchase.
While the Yankees lead the charge, the New York Mets could also vie for Skenes if he prefers a New York base. Last July, the Yankees approached the Pirates about a potential deal, offering prospects Cam Schlittler, George Lombard Jr., Spencer Jones, and Carlos Lagrange. Schlittler has since secured a starting role, stepping up during Gerrit Cole’s Tommy John recovery.
Skenes Denies Trade Rumors
Rumors surfaced last November that Skenes expressed a desire to join the Yankees to teammates, coinciding with his Cy Young announcement. Skenes dismissed these claims, stating, “Rumors are rumors. I was frustrated for a little bit, but it doesn’t really matter. I’ve had some time to think about it, but I’m glad I had the opportunity to speak and clear the air over nothing, basically. It is what it is.”
Recent Struggles in New York
The timing of the Yankees’ interest follows Skenes’ toughest MLB outing against the Mets at Citi Field. Pirates manager Don Kelly pulled him after 37 pitches, during which he allowed five runs, hit a batter, and recorded just two outs. Center fielder Oneil Cruz committed two outfield errors—a misstep and losing the ball in the sun—compounding the issues.
Skenes reflected, “They did a really good job. In the moment, maybe it was a little frustrating, but I’ve just got to execute sooner. You’ve gotta look at it for what it is; there wasn’t a ton of hard contact. A leadoff walk is not great. Some balls landed.”
Dunne attended the game, watching the Pirates fall 11-7. Recently, she landed her first acting role in the Baywatch remake, filming in Los Angeles with Brooks Nader.
