Yankees reportedly targeting trade for two-time All-Star Pirates closer

The New York Yankees appear to be targeting a more long-term solution at closer rather than a rental before the MLB trade deadline.

The Bronx Bombers are zeroing in on a trade for two-time All-Star closer David Bednar from the Pittsburgh Pirates, according to YES Network Yankees insider Jack Curry.

Jack Curry specifically mentions Pirates two-time All-Star closer David Bednar as a guy the Yankees are targeting to trade for right now pic.twitter.com/qiDkfv1XXu

Curry has been one of the most efficient closers in the National League this season, posting a 2.37 ERA with 51 strikeouts in 38 innings. Curry feels the Yankees telegraphed their interest in Bednar with a corresponding roster move on Wednesday, when the team optioned J.C. Escarra to Triple-A.

USA Today MLB insider Bob Nightengale believes the price tag for Bednar is rising with the Yankees, Tigers, Dodgers, and Mariners all looking for bullpen help. Bednar has been perfect in 17 save opportunities since returning from a stint in the Minors in April.

Bednar had a shaky start to the season, taking two losses in the opening series against the Marlins and nearly blowing a save in the Pirates’ only wins. He was sent down after that series, on the heels of a disappointing 2024 season, when he went 3-8 with a 5.77 ERA and just 23 saves.

Bednar signed a one-year, $5.9 million contract with the Pirates before the season to avoid arbitration, and he is under team control through 2026.

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