David Bednar Emerges as Key Trade Target for Mets After Strong Turnaround

Pittsburgh Pirates closer David Bednar, a two-time All-Star, has significantly turned around his season, posting no earned runs in his last 18 appearances after a difficult start that saw him demoted to Triple-A and an ERA as high as 5.52. The right-hander, who was named National League Reliever of the Month for June with a 2.53 ERA and 12.7 K/9 this season, is now considered a prime trade target for teams like the New York Mets looking to fortify their bullpen. Bednar, who can operate as a setup man or closer, remains under club control through 2026 and could offer a significant boost, despite some past volatility in his performance.