Pirates’ Paul Skenes Sets NL Pre-Arbitration Bonus Record

Paul Skenes, the Pittsburgh Pirates’ standout starting pitcher, continues to make headlines with a historic bonus award. According to the Associated Press, Skenes secured $3.4 million from the pre-arbitration bonus pool, setting a National League record for a player of his caliber.

Skenes anchors a Pirates rotation that posted strong numbers in 2025, despite the team finishing last in the National League Central. His performance has drawn attention for both consistency and dominance on the mound, even in a season marked by offensive struggles.

The pre-arbitration bonus pool is designed to reward young players for exceptional performance, and Skenes has now amassed more than $5.5 million in bonus earnings over two seasons. He is set to be eligible for salary arbitration after the 2026 season, which could further escalate his earnings.

Pittsburgh’s overall record of 71-91 in 2025 reflected the team’s offensive woes rather than pitching deficiencies. Even with Skenes’ standout season, the Pirates continued to struggle at the plate, underscoring the need for a more balanced roster moving forward.

1. Skenes’ Dominance on the Mound

Skenes’ rapid rise has been remarkable. He was named National League Rookie of the Year in 2024 and immediately became the starting pitcher for the NL All-Star team that season, despite not appearing on the Opening Day roster. In 2025, Skenes continued to impress, earning All-Star honors for the second consecutive year and leading MLB in ERA. His consistency and poise have made him the cornerstone of Pittsburgh’s pitching staff, and he has drawn attention as one of the league’s top young talents. The Pirates’ rotation benefitted from his presence, posting above-average numbers even as the team struggled offensively. Skenes’ ability to keep opponents in check has made him indispensable to the rebuilding club. With salary arbitration looming, Skenes’ performance guarantees that he will command top-tier compensation, reinforcing his status as one of the National League’s elite pitchers.

2. Team Struggles and Offensive Gaps

Despite Skenes’ dominance, the Pirates’ overall performance in 2025 highlighted a clear gap between pitching and hitting. Pittsburgh ranked at the bottom of MLB in nearly every offensive category, leaving the team without enough run support to capitalize on strong pitching performances. The Pirates’ 71-91 record marked another year outside the postseason, continuing a playoff drought that dates back to 2015. While Skenes kept the team competitive in many games, inconsistent offense ultimately limited the Pirates’ success. Management is looking to address these gaps in the offseason. Pittsburgh reportedly pursued Josh Naylor before he re-signed with the Mariners and has shown interest in veteran hitter Kyle Schwarber. These moves indicate a commitment to strengthening the lineup around their young pitching core. Fans are increasingly concerned about retaining Skenes, as his contract situation will allow him to explore larger opportunities in the near future. The Pirates’ ability to build a competitive team around him may determine whether he remains in Pittsburgh long-term.

3. Looking Ahead for Pittsburgh

Skenes’ accomplishments in his brief MLB career have set him apart. Two consecutive All-Star selections, a Rookie of the Year award, and league-leading ERA illustrate a player capable of carrying a franchise’s pitching staff for years. For the Pirates, Skenes represents both a bright future and a critical challenge. Building a contending roster around him is essential to prevent losing him once his contract allows. The organization faces a delicate balance of development, free-agent acquisitions, and strategic trades. Pittsburgh’s front office has taken early steps this offseason, exploring additions that could bolster both offense and depth. The hope is that these moves, combined with Skenes’ dominance, will create a more balanced and competitive team in 2026. Ultimately, Skenes is the face of the Pirates’ future. His record-setting bonus not only rewards individual excellence but also underscores the team’s reliance on his performance as the centerpiece of a long-term rebuild strategy.