The Philadelphia Phillies have had trade discussions with the Pittsburgh Pirates centered around All-Star closer David Bednar.
With Jose Alvarado suspended 80 games for violating MLB’s performance-enhancing drug policy, the Phillies are actively seeking bullpen help—and Bednar is a top target, per Andrew Fillipponi on X, formerly Twitter.
Philadelphia may also be interested in reliever Dennis Santana, but Bednar is the focus right now.
Phillies Need a Proven Closer
The Phillies are in first place in the NL East and have postseason expectations. But without Alvarado, the bullpen still lacks a defined closer. Internal options haven’t been consistent, and there’s no clear backup with Bednar’s resume.
“Report: The Phillies and Pirates have had trade conversations about closer David Bednar and setup man Dennis Santana. The feeling is Philly could want BOTH in a deal. Stay tuned.”
Bednar was the National League saves leader in 2023 and a two-time All-Star. While he started slow this season and was briefly sent down in April, he’s returned to form. Since rejoining the big-league club, Bednar has posted a 3.65 ERA with 20 strikeouts and just one walk in 12.1 innings.
His fastball has regained velocity, and his command has improved. Scouts view him as one of the top bullpen trade candidates on the market.
Why Bednar Makes Sense for Philly
Philadelphia is built to win now. The rotation has been among the best in baseball, but late-inning reliability remains a concern. Acquiring Bednar would give manager Rob Thomson a clear ninth-inning option with big-game experience.
Since joining the Pirates in 2021, Bednar has recorded 65 saves and a 2.58 ERA across four seasons. He’s shown he can handle pressure, and he brings a power arm that fits the Phillies’ style.
Financially, Bednar is also under team control through 2026, giving the Phillies more than just a rental. He’d be a long-term piece of the bullpen at a relatively affordable salary.
The Pirates are in sell mode and open to moving Bednar, but they’ll want a significant return. Past attempts to trade him were blocked by ownership, but that stance appears to be shifting.
Bednar is one of Pittsburgh’s few proven assets. While Paul Skenes and Andrew McCutchen are considered untouchable, Bednar is not. With the Pirates continuing to rebuild, this could be the best time to maximize his value.
His recent rebound only helps their leverage. If the Phillies want him, they’ll likely need to part with at least one top-15 prospect and possibly more depending on the structure of the deal.
The Phillies are one of several teams reportedly monitoring Bednar’s availability, but their need may be the most urgent. Without Alvarado, they’re left with a bullpen by committee approach that hasn’t held up in past postseasons.
Bednar wouldn’t just stabilize the back end — he’d likely become the team’s closer on arrival. The Phillies aren’t expected to wait until the last minute, either. With multiple contenders interested, Philadelphia may need to move quickly.
Reports suggest the Phillies have also checked in on Santana, but that interest is secondary. Bednar remains the clear top target.
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