MIAMI, FLORIDA – JUNE 24: David Bednar #51 of the Pittsburgh Pirates throws to first base for an out against the Miami Marlins during the ninth inning at loanDepot park on June 24, 2023 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images)
The Pittsburgh Pirates have received plenty of calls on closer David Bednar. What would it take to acquire him?
The asking price for closer David Bednar is said to be enormous, and rightly so — he made the NL All-Star team and still has at least three years left of team control on his contract. Bednar is a Yinzer at heart, and Pirates fans would rightly be upset if the Bucs were to willingly send him elsewhere.
Pittsburgh has been rebuilding its roster since 2018. It’s about time the Pirates major-league group amounted to something, and despite a 20-8 start to the 2023 regular season, the next great Bucs team is not this one. If 2024 or 2025 are to be the year, it all starts with the additions Pittsburgh’s front office makes in moments like these.
MLB Rumors: Could the Pirates trade David Bednar?
Relief pitchers, unlike starters and controllable position talent, are replaceable over time. As much as Bednar means to the area and team right now, his return could have twice the impact. That’s why the Pirates are even considering such a trade.
David Bednar trade package: Arizona Diamondbacks
The Pirates would prefer to trade a player the caliber of Bednar outside of their division, as if not they’ll have to play against him frequently for the next few years. Bednar hits a few of those demands, as Arizona is at the very least outside of the NL Central. They also need bullpen help, and are threatening to contend against the Padres, Dodgers and Giants for years to come. So, what would they have to give up?
Diamondbacks Get
CL, David Bednar
RHP, Rich Hill
Pirates Get
RHP, Brandon Pfaadt
1B/3B, Ivan Melendez
OF, 1B Dominic Canzone
Pittsburgh would throw in Rich Hill to sweeten the pot a little, and Arizona would acquire another starting pitcher for their rotation down the stretch. Bednar, meanwhile, slides in as the team’s closer for the next few years, and he’s affordable.
Pfaadt is the D’Backs No. 3 prospect, but he’s top-30 in all of baseball. He’s struggled this season in the majors, posting an ERA over eight in four starts, all of which he lost. Melendez is expected to make his debut in 2025, which coincides more with the Pirates competitive window. Canzone, meanwhile, has broken through to the bigs this season with varying success. He could start for this Pirates team right now at first base.
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