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The New York Yankees have successfully addressed their bullpen needs ahead of the MLB trade deadline.
Reports indicate that New York has finalized a deal to acquire right-handed closer David Bednar from the Pittsburgh Pirates. The trade is subject to a medical review.
The Yankees are trading a package including Rafael Flores, the team’s eighth-ranked prospect per MLB Pipeline, along with prospects Edgleen Perez and Brian Sanchez, as reported by The New York Post.
Pittsburgh Pirates relief pitcher David Bednar (51) in action against the St. Louis Cardinals at PNC Park. (Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images)
Bednar, a two-time All-Star aged 30, has posted a 2.37 ERA with 17 saves over 38 innings for the Pirates this season. Just two years ago, he led the National League with 39 saves during his second consecutive All-Star campaign in Pittsburgh.
Although Bednar struggled in 2024 with a 5.77 ERA over 57.2 innings, he still managed to secure 23 saves.
Bednar’s addition is crucial for the struggling New York bullpen, especially with Luke Weaver and Devin Williams experiencing inconsistent performances this season. Both Weaver and Williams are set to become free agents after the year, making Bednar’s extended team control until 2026 significant before his free agency in 2027.
Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher David Bednar (51) celebrates after securing the final out against the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park. (D. Ross Cameron/Imagn Images)
Relief pitchers are highly sought after for playoff runs before the trade deadline, leading to a flurry of deals involving big names in recent days.
The San Diego Padres made headlines by acquiring Athletics closer Mason Miller and left-handed pitcher J.P. Sears in exchange for top prospect Leo De Vries. Meanwhile, the New York Mets bolstered their bullpen with Gregory Soto, Tyler Rogers, and Ryan Helsley from the St. Louis Cardinals.
Teams still have a few hours left to make player swaps before the 6 p.m. ET MLB trade deadline.
Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher David Bednar (51) delivers a pitch against the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park. (D. Ross Cameron/Imagn Images)
With top prospects still in their possession, the Yankees may continue to make additional moves.
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