Yankees Just Restored World Series Hopes With Long-Awaited David Bednar Trade
The New York Yankees addressed a significant need on Thursday, swinging a deal for resurgent Pittsburgh Pirates closer David Bednar only hours before the trade deadline.
Impressively, the Yankees did it without giving up any of their true top prospects, like Elmer Rodriguez-Cruz or Carlos Lagrange. The Yankees gave up No. 8 prospect (according to MLB Pipeline) in catcher/first baseman Rafael Flores, another catcher in No. 14 Edgleen Perez, and outfielder Brian Sanchez.
Bednar should instantly become the Yankees' closer, ending the carousel between Devin Williams and Luke Weaver. Following an early-season demotion to Triple-A, Bednar owns a 1.70 ERA and a 50-8 K-BB ratio in 37 innings since April 19.
In Bednar, the Yankees are getting a strong and proven relief arm in what has been arguably the biggest hole in the Yankees' roster. Relievers such as Fernando Cruz, Mark Leiter Jr., and Jake Cousins have all hit the injured list this season, and the rest of a theoretically good bullpen have not met expectations. Bednar's arrival allows Weaver and Williams to finally have consistent roles.
We'll see what else the Yankees have planned, because it certainly feels like they're not done. As of publication, the Pirates still hadn't traded starter Mitch Keller or reliever Dennis Santana, who spent time with the Yankees last season.
Alternatively, the Yankees could fire up trade talks with the Marlins for Sandy Alcantara and/or Edward Cabrera. However, the team appears resolved not to trade No. 4 prospect Spencer Jones, who has reportedly been a top ask for Miami.
The Yankees might also be tempted to talk with the Twins on reliever Griffin Jax, which would complete a very productive trade deadline for New York.
Ultimately, the Yankees just unlocked a new set of paths for their entire pitching staff. Next up? Possibly moving promising starter Cam Schlittler to the bullpen with the impending return of Luis Gil on Sunday.This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 31, 2025, where it first appeared.
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