MLB Trade Rumors: 2 AL East Teams Linked To All-Star Closer

The Pittsburgh Pirates made a big move this week by optioning two-time All-Star closer David Bednar to Triple-A following a disastrous start to the 2025 season. 

Bednar, who led the National League in saves in 2023, has struggled mightily since the beginning of last year. After posting a 5.77 ERA in 2024, he’s opened this season by allowing three earned runs over just three appearances, earning two losses. 

While Pirates manager Derek Shelton called the move "a challenging conversation," he emphasized the need to get Bednar right, pointing to issues with his pitch mix and command.

David Bednar in his last 25 appearances dating back to late July:

7.66 ERA, 19 earned runs in 22.1 innings pitched

— Dan Zangrilli (@DanZangrilli) March 28, 2025

With Bednar’s trade value at its lowest, two American League East teams—the Boston Red Sox and Toronto Blue Jays—have emerged as potential landing spots, according to Zach Pressnell of FanSided. 

“The Red Sox have next to zero options at closer this season,” Pressnell wrote, noting that Boston may be willing to part with a low-level prospect to take a flier on the struggling reliever. 

While Aroldis Chapman has started the season strong in the closer role, Liam Hendriks remains on the injured list and the bullpen depth remains thin. Bednar, who is under club control through 2026, could be an intriguing addition as a high-upside bounce-back candidate.

David Bednar should throw his fastball less

FB a 30% whiff rate in ’23, but had just a 16.7% putaway% in ’24 - despite more velo. His curveball (40.3% whiff, 25.8% putaway) and splitter are better.

Using them more in 2-strike counts could help

CB Whiff+K in 2024: pic.twitter.com/WiyBtGf3Ew

— Isaac (@isaacgroffman) April 3, 2025

The Blue Jays, meanwhile, have more stability at the back end with Jeff Hoffman already notching a couple saves, but Pressnell believes Bednar could still be a valuable piece in a setup role. 

“Bednar would be able to compete for a role at the back end of games in Toronto,” he noted. “Trading him now makes sense for the Pirates, but it’s unclear if this is something they’re looking into at the moment.” 

Bednar's recent performance has certainly raised eyebrows, but for teams like Boston and Toronto aiming to reinforce their bullpens without a significant investment, he could be a worthwhile gamble.

Photo Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images