I think Pittsburgh is going to try and deal Bednar at peak value this summer... I'd rather pay the freight now than wait another 5 weeks. For A's fans: this allows the A's to demote Tyler Ferguson! Thomas is in a struggle for playing time vs. Soderstrom and to a lesser extent, Butler. I don't believe all 3 can thrive with the A's and this trade adds immediate, impact talent that the team will control through 2026. The Leclerc money can cover Bednar's 2026 salary.