Pirates prospect Rafael Flores hopes to showcase power, versatility in 1st MLB taste

September 17, 2025 by Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Pirates catcher Rafael Flores watches from the dugout with pitchers Bubba Chandler and Johan Oviedo during a game against the Cubs on Tuesday at PNC Park.

The departure of affable hometown closer David Bednar, traded to the New York Yankees on July 31, was a painful moment for Pittsburgh Pirates fans, who could do nothing but sit back and deal with a popular player being shipped away to a contender.