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MLB Rumors: David Bednar trade, Mets latest, Shohei Ohtani’s value

By Scott Rogust

Shohei Ohtani, Los Angeles Angels (Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports)
Shohei Ohtani, Los Angeles Angels (Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports) /
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David Bednar, Pirates, MLB rumors
Jul 19, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates relief pitcher David Bednar (51) pitches against the Cleveland Guardians during the ninth inning at PNC Park. The Pirates won 7-5. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /

MLB rumors: Pirates listening to offers for star closer David Bednar

The Pittsburgh Pirates were one of the hottest teams at the start of the 2023 MLB season, even sitting in first place in the NL Central division for a short while. But, the Pirates have fallen back to Earth recently, with the Milwaukee Brewers and Cincinnati Reds looking like the favorites to win the division, they now sit in last place in the division. Yes, even behind the struggling and selling St. Louis Cardinals.

So, the Pirates appear to be prime selling candidates at the Aug. 1 trade deadline. As it turns out, they are listening to offers on one of their best players — closer David Bednar.

According to MLB Network insider Jon Heyman, the Pirates are telling teams that they will listen to offers on Bednar. However, Heyman points out that it could be difficult for teams to acquire him since the closer is under contract through the 2026 season.

Bednar has been stellar so far this season, as evidenced by the 1.15 ERA that he has on the year thus far. Add that, and the fact that he’s under contract for three more seasons, and you’ve got yourself a high price tag.

Besides his 1.15 ERA, Bednar also recorded a .0.95 WHIP, a 3-1 record, 19 saves on 20 opportunities, 47 strikeouts, and 9 walks in 39.0 innings (38 games).

Teams that are in postseason contention are going to look to bolster their bullpens. That has been the trend for quite some time. For those looking to get a great closer option for the rest of the season and beyond, Bednar fits the bill. The question is, will the Pirates move on from him? Or will their high asking price prevent a deal from happening, i.e. Bryan Reynolds this past winter?

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