The New York Yankees addressed their struggling bullpen with a trio of major moves before Thursday’s trade deadline, acquiring All-Star relievers David Bednar and Camilo Doval along with right-hander Jake Bird.
New York sent significant prospect capital to complete the deals. Bednar, 30, came from the Pirates in exchange for catcher/first baseman Rafael Flores (No. 8 prospect), catcher Edgleen Perez, and outfielder Brian Sanchez. The Yankees landed Doval, 28, from the Giants for right-hander Trystan Vrieling (No. 19), catcher/third baseman Jesus Rodriguez (No. 25), left-hander Carlos De La Rosa, and third baseman Parks Harber. Bird, 29, was acquired from the Rockies for second baseman Roc Riggio (No. 10) and left-hander Ben Shields (No. 28).
Bednar, under team control through 2026, has been stellar this year, going a perfect 17-for-17 in save chances with a 2.37 ERA across 42 outings. Doval, a 2023 All-Star who is controllable through 2027, has bounced back with a 3.09 ERA and 50 strikeouts in 46.2 innings. Bird, controllable through 2028, adds depth and roster flexibility, posting a 4.73 ERA and retaining two minor-league options.
These additions aim to stabilize a bullpen that has posted an American League-worst 6.29 ERA since July 1. The moves cap an aggressive deadline for New York, which also added Ryan McMahon, Amed Rosario, Austin Slater, and José Caballero to strengthen its postseason push.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].