The Boston Red Sox are still in the postseason race, but could use some upgrades at the trade deadline in order to make a push. They could target some bullpen help at the trade deadline.
Craig Breslow has made it clear the team does not intend to give up on the season after trading Rafael Devers to the San Francisco Giants. The Red Sox bullpen has a 3.50 ERA, which is the ninth-best in baseball. They could try to build on one of their strengths at the trade deadline. FanSided's Brian Burrows suggested they could trade for David Bednar of the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Bednar struggled last season on the heels of back-to-back All-Star seasons. He was sent to Triple-A after three games this year, but he has been stellar since returning. He has looked more like the player who led the National League in saves in 2023. Since his return from Triple-A, he has a 2.03 ERA with 10 saves.
"Bednar has one more year on his contract, meaning he won't be cheap," wrote Burrows. "The former All-star would be a perfect setup man for Aroldis Chapman and could step into the ninth if Chapman needs a day off. Also, with Chapman being on a one-year deal, Bednar would be the perfect candidate to be the closer next season."
The Pirates are set up to be sellers at the deadline, but Bednar's club control does not make him a lock to be dealt. The Red Sox are just 2 1/2 games out of a wild card spot, and adding Bednar to the backend of the bullpen with Chapman could give them a real chance.
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The Red Sox offense should get a boost when Alex Bregman returns. However, buffing up the bullpen could go a long way in making a late-season push to the postseason. At his best, Bednar is one of the best relievers in baseball.
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