Yankees nearing deal for Pirates’ David Bednar before MLB trade deadline

The Yankees’ bullpen finally got some much-needed help right in the last hours before the MLB trade deadline.

The Bronx Bombers are in the process of acquiring Pirates closer David Bednar on Thursday, The Post’s Jon Heyman confirmed.

While assembling a bullpen has normally been a strength of general manager Brian Cashman, this year’s unit has not compared to years past.

The combination of injuries and underwhelming performances have put manager Aaron Boone in a tough spot at times while trying to navigate the final few innings.

Closer Devin Williams has mostly righted the ship after a slow start, Luke Weaver seemingly is back to his usual self and Tim Hill is effective versus lefties, but that’s mostly where the good news ends.

Fernando Cruz and Mark Leiter Jr. are injured, while Jonathan Loaisiga has not been the same pitcher post-injury and Ian Hamilton has endured his ups and downs.

While the Yankees have had luck turning non-name relievers into solid performers in past years, pitching coach Matt Blake has not enjoyed the same success this season.

Acquiring Bednar, who owns a 2.37 ERA in 42 games this season, should help and provide the Yankees with another proven reliever.

Bednar, a seven-year veteran, has spent the last five seasons with Pittsburgh after opening his career with the Padres.

He’s tallied 17 saves this season and 101 in his career.

The Yankees probably could stand to add another reliever while they prepare for the stretch run in what is sure to be a tight AL East.

The Blue Jays, Red Sox and Yankees are all in the hunt for playoff spots.

Fortifying the bullpen also helps provide insurance for a rotation that is relying on Marcus Stroman and Will Warren, who have struggled at times throughout this season.