With a week until the MLB trade deadline, the baseball world is beginning to see the trade block come to light. For the Detroit Tigers, the needs on the roster are all the more apparent after dropping nine of their last ten games.

They can’t stand pat at the deadline, especially with the issues on the roster being so apparent. A third baseman and starting pitcher are needed, but David Schoenfield of ESPN predicts the Tigers will swing a deal for a dominant closer.

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Schoenfield predicts that the “Pirates trade David Bednar to the Tigers.” He continues, “Bednar, a two-time All-Star, has rediscovered his feel and command after a rough 2024. He also comes with an additional season of team control.”

The dominant Pirates right-hander is under team control in 2026 and would be a great trade pickup for the Tigers. He might cost a little bit more than some other rentals, but for Detroit, he’s the best, most realistic option.

With division rivals Minnesota Twins and Cleveland Guardians having four of the top relievers available at the trade deadline, Detroit’s options are limited. Emmanuel Clase, Cade Smith, Jhoan Duran, and Griffin Jax are all top options this trade deadline.

But, realistically, none will be traded to Detroit. Bednar, from the central, but in the NL, is the team’s best fit at the deadline. He has been remarkable this season.

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Through 39 appearances, and in 35 innings pitched, he has a 2.31 ERA, 48 strikeouts, and 10 walks. He’s also allowed just two home runs all season. But his most impressive statistic is his current stretch of dominance.

From May 24th until July 22nd, the Pirates’ right-hander has pitched in 21 games. During that time, Bednar has struck out 26 batters, walked just five, and hasn’t allowed a single earned run.

It’s a 20.1 inning scoreless streak from Bednar spanning 21 appearances. He’s notched 11 saves in this time for a Pirates team that sits at the bottom of the NL Central. Unfortunately, Detroit got a good look at his dominance lately.

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In back-to-back games, Bednar secured the save for the Pirates over the Tigers. His performance lately has him as the Tigers’ top trade deadline target in the bullpen. He’s drawing significant interest, and could be a great deadline pickup if Detroit pulls the trigger.

With the struggles of Tommy Kahnle, the Tigers need to add to their bullpen. While Will Vest has been good, they need more than one reliever. Bednar, who’s been dominant in his last 21 appearances, would be a great pickup to fill such a need.

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