Pirates Eye Ketel Marte Trade to Boost Offense Around Star Pitcher Paul Skenes

The Pittsburgh Pirates are seeking a path back to the postseason after a decade-long drought, and attention is turning to potential trades that could immediately improve the lineup. One option gaining traction is a move for Arizona Diamondbacks All-Star Ketel Marte, whose bat could provide the run support the team’s pitching staff currently lacks.

Paul Skenes, Pittsburgh’s standout starting pitcher, captured the 2025 National League Cy Young award, demonstrating dominance on the mound. Despite his efforts, the Pirates struggled offensively, finishing last in nearly every major hitting category and ending the season with a 71-91 record.

MLB columnist Bob Nightengale of USA Today suggested the Pirates have the payroll flexibility and pitching depth to pursue Marte. He noted that Marte, under contract through 2031 at a relatively modest $92 million, represents a realistic and high-impact trade target.

Other teams, including the Red Sox, Rays, and Tigers, are also reportedly monitoring Marte, highlighting the competitive market for the versatile infielder. For Pittsburgh, acquiring Marte could provide the offensive lift necessary to complement Skenes and contend in the National League.

1. Marte’s Value and Fit in Pittsburgh

Ketel Marte has established himself as a consistent and productive force since joining the Diamondbacks in 2017. In 2025, he hit .283 with 28 home runs and 72 RBIs, blending power, on-base skills, and defensive versatility that make him a coveted addition for any team seeking to compete immediately. The Diamondbacks, reportedly in need of pitching, may be open to trades, creating a potential opportunity for the Pirates to offer surplus arms or prospects in exchange for Marte. His presence could help address the offensive deficiencies that limited Pittsburgh’s success last season. Marte’s contract provides both cost certainty and long-term control, making him a valuable asset for a team looking to rebuild strategically while remaining competitive. His ability to produce in high-leverage situations would directly support the team’s pitching staff, particularly Skenes. Adding Marte would also give the Pirates lineup flexibility, as he can play multiple infield positions while contributing in the middle of the batting order. The combination of versatility and consistency makes him a potential cornerstone for the franchise’s return to relevance.

2. Offense, Pitching, and Postseason Ambitions

Pittsburgh’s 2025 season highlighted the disparity between a strong pitching rotation and an anemic offense. While Skenes excelled on the mound, the team’s lack of run support prevented them from translating pitching dominance into wins. Offseason moves, including the loss of key contributors like David Bednar and Ke’Bryan Hayes at the trade deadline, left fans concerned about the team’s trajectory. Adding Marte could immediately improve run production and demonstrate the organization’s commitment to contending. The Pirates have explored other options, including attempts to acquire Josh Naylor and monitoring free-agent targets like Kyle Schwarber, though those pursuits did not materialize. A trade for Marte may represent the most viable avenue to pair elite offense with their Cy Young-winning pitcher. For fans eager to see Pittsburgh compete before Skenes’ window closes, acquiring Marte could be transformative. With a decade since their last postseason appearance and even longer since a division title, the team faces both opportunity and urgency in shaping the 2026 roster.

3. Strategic Considerations for the Front Office

The Pirates must weigh the cost of acquiring Marte against the potential long-term benefits. Any trade would likely require pitching depth or top prospects, testing the organization’s strategy between building for the future and winning now. Balancing payroll flexibility, positional needs, and competitive priorities will be key in negotiations. The team’s front office must also consider market competition, as multiple clubs are reportedly interested in Marte, increasing the challenge of completing a deal. Securing Marte would not only boost the lineup but could also signal to fans and the league that Pittsburgh is committed to ending its postseason drought. The move would align elite pitching with improved offense, addressing the most glaring weakness from 2025. Time will tell if the Pirates can execute a trade capable of transforming their roster, offering Skenes the support needed to turn individual excellence into team success.