The New York Yankees have a vacancy at closer.
David Bednar is a free agent, and the Yankees have extended the two-time All-Star a $23.15 million qualifying offer.
What’s New York’s Plan B if Bednar declines and signs elsewhere? Recently, Yankees GM Brian Cashman said the bullpen was a “priority” this offseason.
Bleacher Report’s Tim Kelly proposed a trade idea that would save the Yankees money while adding an elite closer from the Milwaukee Brewers.
“With a bullpen that includes Abner Uribe, Aaron Ashby and DL Hall, the Brewers could withstand the loss of [Trevor] Megill.
“Former AL Rookie of the Year Luis Gil would be an interesting player to target in return for Megill, even if he carries significant injury risk. [Luis] Gil still has two years remaining before free agency, and could be a weapon as a starter or a reliever,” Kelly wrote.
Megill was on the mound for the final out of the 2026 World Series and posted a 2.63 ERA with 30 saves in 63 appearances during the regular season.
Kelly added that the Yankees could save a huge chunk of money with this trade, instead of signing Bednar to a $50 million-plus contract.
“Nonetheless, we’re projecting New York’s other team, the Yankees, to acquire Megill from the Brewers. B/R has projected that it will take a three-year, $55.5 million deal with a $15 million club option for a fourth season for the Yankees to re-sign David Bednar in free agency.
“Alternatively, Brian Cashman could trade for Megill, who will pitch next season at 33, only a year older than Bednar. Megill would only be a one-year commitment, and the Yankees would get draft-pick compensation back for Bednar, assuming he declines the qualifying offer and signs elsewhere,” Kelly added.
Bednar was rock solid as New York’s closer, but Megill is a more cost-effective option for Cashman, whose main goal for the winter should be to improve the offense.
