Red Sox Trade Proposal Targets Pirates’ 2-Time All-Star Following Recent Demotion

Red Sox Trade Proposal Brings Pirates’ 2-Time All-Star Following Sudden Demotion

Could Boston seize the opportunity to acquire a former All-Star closer on the cheap?

The Boston Red Sox’s bullpen has exceeded expectations in 2025, but its long-term reliability remains uncertain. Heading into spring training, the bullpen was a major concern, particularly with Liam Hendriks sidelined due to injury and questions surrounding Aroldis Chapman’s ability to lock down the closer role.

It would seem like acquiring a proven closer, especially one with two All-Star appearances, would come at a high cost. However, baseball often surprises, and there’s one pitcher who fits that description and might be available for a fraction of the price.

David Bednar, the Pittsburgh Pirates’ right-handed pitcher, earned All-Star honors in both 2022 and 2023, with a combined 2.27 ERA and 58 saves. However, after a rough 2024 season, during which he lost the closer job to Chapman, Bednar has struggled so much this year that he was recently demoted to Triple-A.

Zach Pressnell of FanSided recently suggested that the Red Sox could take advantage of Bednar’s low trade value and acquire him at a bargain price, potentially adding depth to their bullpen or even another closer option if he regains his form.

“The Red Sox are in desperate need of closer options. They may be willing to take a chance on any closer who becomes available soon, and Bednar is now one of those possibilities,” Pressnell wrote.

While Bednar’s trade value is significantly lower than it was just two years ago, the Red Sox might be open to trading a minimal return to acquire the struggling right-hander.

It’s a curious scenario—should a team gamble on a pitcher with Bednar’s track record despite his recent struggles? The 30-year-old is making $5.9 million in arbitration this season and is under contract through 2026, but there’s no guarantee he’ll remain a key bullpen piece for Boston or any team by then.

Given the current state of their bullpen, it seems unlikely the Red Sox would rush to add a pitcher with such significant issues, even if he is starting in Triple-A. However, stranger moves have certainly been made before.