Can newspaper subscriptions help keep Paul Skenes in Pittsburgh?

 

Supporting local journalism is important—but could it also help keep Pirates ace Paul Skenes in Pittsburgh? The Pittsburgh Pirates have long been criticized for not spending big on free agents. Meanwhile, the owner of the team also owns the Youngstown Vindicator and Warren Tribune Chronicle.

Some fans are joking that if enough people subscribe, the Pirates might have the money to keep Skenes from bolting in free agency. Realistically, the Dodgers and other big-market teams will throw massive offers his way when the time comes. But wouldn’t it be fun if Pirates fans rallied behind their local papers as part of a grassroots effort?

Of course, newspaper subscriptions alone won’t fund a superstar’s contract, but investing in local journalism is still a great way to support the community. Who knows—maybe a surge in readers could at least help bring more coverage to the Pirates and apply pressure on ownership to spend more on talent.

What do you think? Would you subscribe to the Vindicator if it meant keeping Paul Skenes in Pittsburgh? Drop your thoughts in the comments!