The New York Yankees' bullpen has undergone a major overhaul, acquiring Bednar, Doval, and Bird in succession.

During the rain delay that interrupted today's game in the fifth inning for three hours, Giancarlo Stanton revealed that the clubhouse held a "best internet connection competition." This timely rain coincided with the trade deadline—the Yankees acquired David Bednar from the Pirates, Jake Bird from the Rockies, and, just before a 7-4 victory over the Rays, secured Giants closer Camilo Doval. Additionally, infielder José Caballero transferred from the Rays to the Yankees during the game, while Oswald Peraza was traded to the Angels.

“The team's strength has improved,” asserted General Manager Brian Cashman. The three trades specifically bolstered the bullpen, which has had the worst ERA in the American League at 6.29 since July 1. Manager Aaron Boone stated, “Now we have multiple closing options, significantly enhancing our ability to shorten games.”

Trade Details
Yankees receive: Right-handed pitcher David Bednar
Pirates receive: Catcher Rafael Flores (8th in Yankees' prospect ranking), catcher/first baseman Edgleen Perez (14th), and outfielder Brian Sanchez.

Yankees receive: Right-handed pitcher Jake Bird
Rockies receive: Second baseman Roc Riggio (10th), left-handed pitcher Ben Shields (28th).

Yankees receive: Right-handed pitcher Camilo Doval

Giants receive: Right-handed pitcher Trystan Vrieling (19th), catcher/third baseman Jesus Rodriguez (25th), left-handed pitcher Carlos De La Rosa, and third baseman Parks Harber.

Boone confirmed that Devin Williams retains the closer role, with the new acquisitions forming a depth chart. Bednar and Bird will meet up in Miami tomorrow, while Doval has already arrived in New York due to the Giants' originally scheduled game against the Mets. The Yankees simultaneously optioned right-handed pitchers Yerry De Los Santos and Ian Hamilton to Triple-A.

Cashman operated the trades from a temporary command center in Tampa. Although no starting pitcher was added, he successfully retained core prospects like Jasson Domínguez. “Some players are more flexible for trades,” Cashman admitted, “and parting with potential assets is a necessary cost.”

Since returning in mid-April, the 30-year-old Bednar has posted a 1.70 ERA over 39 appearances, converting all 17 save opportunities, and had a streak of 23 consecutive scoreless outings from May 24 to July 26. The 28-year-old Doval is tied for the National League lead with 39 saves in 2023, boasting a 3.09 ERA over 46.2 innings and 50 strikeouts this season. “He throws a 100 mph fastball,” Williams praised. Although the 29-year-old Bird has a 4.73 ERA, his home ERA is only 2.48, and he qualified for arbitration for the first time this offseason.

All three contracts are controlled through 2026, effectively alleviating the pressure of Williams and Luke Weaver becoming free agents after the 2025 season. “The internal talent is also promising,” Boone mentioned players returning from injury like Luis Gil, “Gil will make his return on Sunday in Miami.”