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Rafael Flores Goes to Pirates in David Bednar Deal
The New York Yankees sent catching prospect Rafael Flores and two other prospects for Pirates closer David Bednar, according to Jon Heyman. Flores ranked as the number eight prospect for the Yankees and has been incredibly productive over the past two seasons. He cruised through High-A and Double-A in 2024, posting a combined 21 homers with eight steals and a 152 wRC+ across the two levels. The 24-year-old stayed at Double-A to begin 2025, and slashed .287/.346/.496 with 15 homers and six steals in 370 plate appearances before being promoted to Triple-A. While he was older for the level, it's positive to see him crush that level. Flores hasn't been quite as good at the highest level of the minors with a 99 wRC+, but has posted the highest walk rate of his career at 22.4 percent. Touted for his framing ability on the defensive side, Flores is MLB-ready and could debut with Pittsburgh soon. He'll be someone to keep an eye on in two-catcher leagues in deep leagues.
Source: Jon Heyman
Source: Jon Heyman
