The Chicago Cubs have gotten off to a solid start in the 2025 MLB season, winning nine of their first 15 games and maintaining a position at the top of the National League Central. However, a major concern looms over their early success: the bullpen. Only four relievers with three or more appearances currently boast an ERA under 4.00, which is far from ideal for a team looking to sustain its momentum. If the Cubs are to build on their early success and hold onto their lead in the division, fixing their bullpen woes will be a top priority.
Matthew Sullivan of Athlon Sports has suggested a potential solution to this problem in the form of a trade with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Despite struggling early this season, the Cubs could target former All-Star closer David Bednar, who was recently optioned to Triple-A Indianapolis after a rough start to 2025. Bednar, who has two years of team control left before becoming a free agent in 2027, could be an appealing long-term addition to the Cubs’ bullpen. Sullivan believes now is the best time to buy low on Bednar, whose struggles have lowered his trade value.
Bednar’s potential turnaround is not without precedent. When the Pirates acquired him from the Padres in 2021, Bednar found his stride in Pittsburgh, recording a stellar 2.23 ERA. His success in Pittsburgh after struggling with the Padres indicates that a change of scenery could be exactly what the right-hander needs to get back on track. With two years of control left, Bednar would not be a mere rental for the Cubs, but rather a potentially impactful piece for their bullpen for the foreseeable future.
However, acquiring Bednar won’t come without its price. As a player with multiple years of control left, the Cubs will likely need to give up more than just a few minor league prospects. Sullivan suggests that the Pirates, who are looking to develop their young talent, may request a package featuring one or more of the Cubs’ top prospects. Players like James Triantos (Cubs No. 5 prospect) or a combination of Jonathon Long (No. 13) and Ben Cowles (No. 22) could be the type of young, impactful talent the Pirates are seeking in return for Bednar.
For the Cubs, acquiring Bednar would be a bold move aimed at shoring up a key weakness as they push for sustained success in the division. With an already strong core of talent, bolstering the bullpen could be the final piece needed for a deep postseason run. As the Cubs continue their strong start to the season, keeping an eye on potential trade opportunities like this one could prove crucial for their long-term success.
