With the MLB trade deadline nearing, rumors are heating up around the league, and the Pittsburgh Pirates are once again in the mix. According to MLB Network, the Pirates and Toronto Blue Jays have reportedly held talks about a possible trade that would send a relief pitcher to Toronto.
The Blue Jays are believed to be targeting at least one of Pittsburgh’s bullpen arms. The Pirates’ relief corps, led by Dennis Santana and David Bednar, has been a bright spot this season. Both pitchers are drawing trade interest, particularly because they are under team control only through the 2026 season.
It’s not yet known what Toronto might offer in return, but given Pittsburgh’s offensive struggles, it’s likely the Pirates are seeking help at the plate. The team ranks near the bottom of the league in runs scored and home runs.
The Blue Jays are having a strong season, currently leading the AL East and riding a hot streak with seven wins in their last ten games—despite being without injured starter Max Scherzer for much of the year.
The Pirates, on the other hand, are struggling. They sit in last place in the NL Central with a 45-62 record. While their pitching has been solid—eighth in MLB with a 3.73 team ERA—their offense has been among the worst in the league.
Toronto, whose bullpen has been less consistent (ranking 19th in team ERA at 4.16), is looking to bolster its relief depth. Along with the Blue Jays, other teams—particularly within the AL East, including the New York Yankees—are showing interest in Santana and Bednar.
Bednar has 17 saves and a 2.37 ERA this season, while Santana boasts a 1.39 ERA and has surrendered just one earned run over his last seven outings. Santana also served a suspension earlier this year following a confrontation with a fan.
The Blue Jays face the Orioles on Tuesday, while the Pirates will take on the Giants. The trade deadline is July 31.