Paul Skenes and Tar, Skubal were named the National and American League Cy Young Award winners, respectively, Wednesday, capping their terrific 2025 seasons and kick-starting what could be a whirlwind offseason for both star MLB pitchers. Skenes became the first pitcher since Dwight Gooden to win the National League Rookie of the Year and then the National League Cy Young Award. The Pittsburgh Pirates flamethrower led the majors with a 1.97 ERA while striking out 216 batters. Skubal became the 12th pitcher to win back-to-back Cy Young Awards as he maintained his dominance in the Detroit Tigers’ rotation. He led the American League with a 2.21 ERA and struck out 248 batters.
Pittsburgh finished the year 71-91 and last in the National League Central division. Detroit was 87-75 and earned an American League wild-card spot but lost in the American League Division Series to the Seattle Mariners.
While the chances are low, both Skenes and Skubal have been mentioned in trade rumors as the MLB offseason has gotten underway. Skenes was linked to the New York Yankees in a report from NJ Advance Media. A former Pirates teammate of Skenes reportedly told the outlet the pitcher was