​Paul Skenes, the standout pitcher for the Pirates and MLB All-Star, had an awkward exchange with a reporter on Monday night, who suggested he might become a future New York Yankee. While Skenes and the Yankees have been linked to each other in trade talks, this particular comment surprised him. Skenes shied away from the comment and is focused on helping the Pirates and putting all the rumors to rest.MORE: Yankees announce surprising Cam Schlittler news immediately before MLB All-Star breakSkenes was in the middle of taking a question from a different reporter and overheard someone say that they had an awesome interview with him, highlighting that he will be a future Yankee, which left Skenes a bit confused. This left Skenes so confused that he forgot what he was saying to the reporter who originally asked him a question.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementWow, she’s super proud,” another reporter said. Interrupting someone in the middle of a question and saying “Future Yankee” is uncalled for. Skenes has been linked to trade rumors involving big market teams, and when a question is being asked of him, Skenes’ focus is on the All-Star Game and representing the Pirates organization.People tend to go back to the idea that Skenes will be a Yankee because last year the Yankees pursued the ace to try to bolster their rotation, but the Yankees’ offer didn’t meet the demands that the Pirates were looking for.Skenes isn’t going anywhere as far as the Pirates are concerned. His contract is locked up till the 2029 season, and they plan to build a contending team around Skenes to keep him happy. The Pirates are currently 50-47 in 4th place in the NL Central and are 2 games back of a wildcard spot.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementReporters should aim to create an enjoyable atmosphere for players during All-Star Game interviews. Discussing trade rumors can lead to player frustration. Some reporters engage players effectively with interesting questions, such as “If you could choose one player’s skill set, whose would it be?”The 2026 MLB All-Star Game takes place tonight at 8 PM at Citizens Bank Park, home of the Philadelphia Phillies.— Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead —