MLB Stars Win Cy Young Awards, Offseason Buzz Begins
On Wednesday, the Cy Young Award winners for this season were announced, with Paul Skeens of the National League and Tarik Skubal from the American League taking home the honors. This wraps up an impressive 2025 season for both pitchers and marks the beginning of what could be a hectic offseason.
Skeens made history by becoming the first pitcher since Dwight Gooden to earn both the National League Rookie of the Year and the Cy Young Award. This year, the Pittsburgh Pirates ace posted a remarkable 1.97 ERA and struck out 216 batters—pretty impressive numbers!
Meanwhile, Skubal continued his strong performance as a key player for the Detroit Tigers, becoming the 12th pitcher ever to win consecutive Cy Young Awards. He led the American League with a 2.21 ERA and chalked up 248 strikeouts. It’s safe to say he’s been a major asset for his team.
To give some context, the Pirates finished the season with a tough record of 71 wins and 91 losses, landing them at the bottom of the National League Central. On the other hand, the Tigers secured a wild card spot in the American League with an 87-75 record, although they were eliminated in the American League Division Series by the Seattle Mariners.
As the offseason approaches, trade rumors are swirling, although they might not lead to any substantial moves. Skeens has reportedly expressed interest in the New York Yankees, as indicated by a former teammate. This source claimed that “he hopes to be traded” before hitting free agency in 2029.
Pirates general manager Ben Cherington reacted to these rumors, downplaying the trade talk while also acknowledging the situation. He mentioned a general respect for the Yankees but emphasized the need to focus on what the Pirates must do moving forward.
Interestingly, the Los Angeles Angels have also been mentioned as a possible destination for Skeens, considering his California roots. It’s curious—one wonders if such a move would entice him to return home.
Trade interest is certainly high for Skeens, and while Cherington insists he will remain a Pirate in 2026, the right offer could change everything. He stated, “Teams have to ask questions, right?” suggesting that the speculation will likely continue.
As for Skubal, the Tigers are reportedly open to signing him, with the Los Angeles Dodgers and Boston Red Sox being named as potential suitors. The Tigers would need to be impressed to let him go, though.
Tigers GM Jeff Greenberg, when pressed for details on trade discussions, remained tight-lipped, affirming that specifics regarding Skubal or other players would not be disclosed at this time.
With the winter meetings just around the corner, it should be interesting to see how the offseason unfolds—there’s no telling what surprises might be on the horizon!
