Cubs: 3 Pittsburgh Pirates players to trade for not named Andrew McCutchen

Cubs trade targets: Pirates closer David Bednar

Looks — it’s incredibly unlikely. Yes, the Pirates are reportedly going to sell some assets off at the trade deadline as things currently stand, but dealing away Bednar would not be received well. Bednar is as Pittsburgh as it gets. He grew up nearby, and even comes out of the bullpen to ‘Renegade’ like he’s the Steelers fourth-quarter pass rush.

That being said, Bednar is a relief pitcher. Eventually, they become interchangeable. That has not happened yet, as Bednar could be an NL All-Star this season, but does Pittsburgh really want to wait around and find out?

Bednar is at his peak value right now. He’s under contract through 2026 (though with arbitration) and is one of the best relief pitchers in baseball. As tough as it would be to watch him with the rival Cubs, that factor could also help Pittsburgh get the most in return for their star closer.

Chicago’s farm system is stronger than in years past, and some of their prospects are only a year or two away, at worst. If trading Bednar helps Pittsburgh ensure that its actual competitive window (not this year, sorry Pirates fans) has even more talent available, then perhaps it’s worth exploring.

As for the Cubs, their bullpen is a sore spot so far this season. Bednar would fix that and then some, and perhaps set Chicago up for a postseason run not seen since 2016.