The Texas Rangers are aggressively pursuing one of the top closers available ahead of the trade deadline.
After catching fire since the All-Star break—winning eight of their last 11 games—the Rangers have reinserted themselves into the playoff race. Despite enduring slumps earlier in the season, their strong starting pitching gives them a legitimate shot in the postseason.
With that in mind, the latest reports suggest Texas plans to buy at the deadline, with a particular focus on improving their bullpen—an area that’s been a concern since the offseason.
According to Noah Hiles of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (subscription required), the Rangers have reached out to the Pittsburgh Pirates regarding All-Star closer David Bednar. However, the asking price—a top-five prospect—is currently seen as too steep.
While Bednar isn’t having his best season overall, he’s rebounded well with a 2.37 ERA, 1.105 WHIP, 51 strikeouts, and 17 saves across 38 innings for a struggling Pirates squad. He’s under team control through 2026, which makes him a long-term bullpen solution, not just a rental.
Still, giving up a premier prospect for a reliever—even one of Bednar’s caliber—is a tough sell, especially when there are other options on the market. If Pittsburgh doesn’t lower its demands, Bednar could remain with the Pirates, and the Rangers may pivot to a different bullpen target.
