PT TOMORROW: NL Central - A closer candidate in PIT

Pittsburgh Pirates

David Bednar (RHP, PIT) has garnered plenty of chatter as a trade candidate ahead of next month’s trade deadline. The idea of Bednar being dealt is far from a certainty, as he is under team control through 2026, which gives the team time to hit a contending cycle. However, if Bednar is on the move, the team’s pecking order in the bullpen has likely shifted in recent weeks.

Previously, Chris Stratton (RHP, PIT) appeared to be next in line if Bednar was injured or traded, and at one point this season appeared to be splitting the closer role. Since, he has struggled from a results perspective and has also seen key indicators such as his strikeout rate drop (21 K%) and has allowed opposing hitters to reach base at a .298...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

As the 2026 season winds down, these players are just getting started
Sep 18 2026 3:05am
The AL West has some interesting options for some new playing time heading into 2027.
Sep 17 2026 3:03am
A slugging Yohandy Morales tries to pound out a spot for himself on the 2026 Nationals and beyond. Plus: SS in ATL; bench in PHI; Marsee in MIA; Tong at NYM; more.
Sep 15 2026 10:05am
This week, we point out an under-the-radar option in L.A., welcome starting pitchers back to Arizona and San Diego, check in on a favorite of ours in Colorado, and take a closer look at the Giants' starting rotation.
Sep 12 2026 3:05am
A look at how free agency, potential call-ups, and other roster decisions might impact lineups, rotations, and bullpens for all five teams next year.
Sep 10 2026 3:05am

Tools