The Los Angeles Dodgers are expected to compete for a World Series again this season, which will put them in the market to add to their roster ahead of the Major League Baseball trade deadline.
One area of need for the Dodgers could be the bullpen, and MLB analyst Garrett Kerman of ClutchPoints proposed a deal that would see Los Angeles acquire David Bednar from the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Dodgers acquire:
Pirates acquire:
- Dalton Rushing, C/OF, Dodgers No. 1 prospect
- Josue De Paula, OF, Dodgers No. 2 prospect
- Ronan Kopp, LHP
The proposed deal would be a blockbuster as Los Angeles would deal their two top prospects and another pitching prospect for an All-Star closer in Bednar.
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“The Dodgers acquire a proven closer in Bednar, addressing a glaring need as they push for another World Series,” Kerman wrote. “With Will Smith entrenched at catcher and a surplus of young outfielders, Los Angeles can afford to part with Rushing and De Paula to secure the back end of their bullpen for multiple playoff runs.”
Bednar is under contract through the 2026 season and is owed $5.9 million this season. The All-Star closer would help solidify the backend of the bullpen and give Los Angeles another high-leverage reliever for their pennant push. He was an All-Star in 2023.
Bednar has struggled this season as he’s 0-4 with a 5.17 ERA in 19 games, including 5 saves.
Los Angeles would part with more prospects, but with the Dodgers looking to win another World Series, it is the price to pay to acquire a star reliever.
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