The New York Yankees have made a significant move in the MLB trade deadline race by acquiring All-Star closer David Bednar from the Pittsburgh Pirates. The trade, pending a medical review, involves New York sending a package featuring top prospect Rafael Flores, 19-year-old Edgleen Perez, and outfielder Brian Sanchez. Bednar, a 30-year-old two-time All-Star with a 2.37 ERA and 17 saves this season, is expected to provide crucial bullpen support as the Yankees prepare for the postseason.
The Yankees’ bullpen, which has struggled recently, will benefit from Bednar’s addition, especially as key relievers like Luke Weaver and Devin Williams approach free agency. With both Weaver and Williams hitting free agency after this season, Bednar’s signing represents a strategic move to solidify their relief corps for the remainder of the year. Bednar, who had a strong 2022 season with the Pirates but struggled in 2024 with a 5.77 ERA over 57.2 innings, brings valuable experience to the team. His contract includes one more year of team control, ensuring he will be with the Yankees through the 2026 season before becoming a free agent in 2027.
Around the league, other teams are also making moves to bolster their prospects for the playoffs. The San Diego Padres made a major splash by acquiring Athletics closer Mason Miller and left-handed pitcher J.P. Sears in a blockbuster deal that sent Leo De Vries, the third-best prospect in baseball, to the Athletics. Meanwhile, the New York Mets bolstered their bullpen by acquiring Gregory Soto, Tyler Rogers, and Ryan Helsley, the St. Louis Cardinals’ stud closer. These trades reflect the competitive nature of the MLB market as teams race to secure elite talent before the deadline.
The Yankees, who still hold their top prospects, may not be done with their roster adjustments. With the trade deadline approaching, the focus is now on how these moves will impact each team’s playoff chances. The addition of Bednar could prove to be a decisive factor for the Yankees, especially as they look to address their bullpen woes and build a competitive roster for the upcoming season.