Pirates acquire right-handed reliever Doval from Yankees

The Pittsburgh Pirates have acquired right-handed reliever Camilo Doval from the New York Yankees in exchange for two minor league prospects, according to multiple reports on Saturday, August 1, 2026. The deal, pending medical reviews, sends catcher Omar Alfonzo and outfielder Luis Cruz to New York as the Pirates seek to bolster their bullpen for a postseason push.

Doval, 29, was an All-Star closer with the San Francisco Giants before being traded to the Yankees at last season’s deadline. His tenure in New York, however, proved disappointing. In 44 appearances for the Yankees this season, he recorded one save and a 4.54 earned run average. Over 66 total appearances with New York across two seasons, his ERA was 4.63. Reports indicate he struggled significantly against left-handed hitters and at Yankee Stadium, where he posted a 7.08 ERA this year compared to a 1.86 mark on the road.

For the Pirates, the move represents a calculated gamble on a pitcher with a proven track record. Prior to his time in New York, Doval saved 109 games and maintained a 3.29 ERA over parts of five seasons with San Francisco. Pittsburgh enters play on Saturday with a 55-56 record, just 2.5 games out of...