The Yankees’ bullpen could be headed for a major reset after 2026, and the ripple effect may hit one of the most important spots on the staff: closer.
Six New York relievers are set to reach free agency, with David Bednar among them. The Yankees can keep the right-hander in the mix by extending a qualifying offer, which would give him a path back to New York for at least one season if he accepts.
Bednar has done the job like one of the steadier closers in the game, going 35-for-39 in save chances this season. If he lands elsewhere, that would leave a significant hole for New York to fill.
Bleacher Report’s Kerry Miller said this is shaping up to be a big offseason for how the Yankees build out the bullpen.
"With David Bednar and darn near every other reliever of note hitting free agency, the Yankees have quite a bit of work to do on their bullpen. The dream target would be Mason Miller, if the Padres are willing to have that conversation," Miller wrote.
If the Yankees can’t bring Bednar back, Miller pointed to Milwaukee Brewers closer Trevor Megill as a logical fallback.
"But while trading for Devin Williams didn't pan out how they hoped in 2025, going back to Milwaukee for Trevor Megill could be the move. He was an All-Star last year and probably ought to be a three-time reigning All-Star at this point," Miller added.
Megill’s profile fits the late-inning mold. He pairs a power fastball with a nasty knuckle curve, and those pitches helped him strike out 69 batters in 61.2 innings in 2026.
He won’t be a free agent until 2028, and the Brewers have a track record of moving stars a year before they reach the open market. Josh Hader and Devin Williams were both dealt in the same contract window Megill is in now.
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