Yankees trade for David Bednar to strengthen bullpen ahead of playoff push originally appeared on Athlon Sports. The Yankees finally made their bullpen move. According to Jeff Passan of The Athletic, New York is acquiring David Bednar from the Pirates, giving manager Aaron Boone the high-leverage arm he’s been missing for most of 2025.

The New York Yankees acquired Pittsburgh Pirates closer David Bednar on Thursday. The Pirates received catching prospects Rafael Flores and Edgleen Perez and outfielder Brian Sanchez. The 30-year-old closer was one of the top relief pitchers on the market this year. He joins a Yankees bullpen that includes Luke Weaver and Devin Williams.

Bednar becomes the Yankees' top reliever in terms of average fastball velocity. He is under club control through the 2026 season.