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Pirates Option Struggling Closer David Bednar to Triple-A
about 1 year agoUS
In a surprising move reflecting recent performance struggles, the Pittsburgh Pirates announced on April 1, 2025, that they have optioned right-handed relief pitcher and former All-Star closer David Bednar to their Triple-A affiliate in Indianapolis. This decision comes after a difficult start to the 2025 season, compounding issues that surfaced in 2024.
Key Insights
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Demotion: Two-time All-Star closer David Bednar has been sent down to Triple-A Indianapolis.
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Performance Issues: Bednar struggled significantly in 2024 (5.77 ERA, 7 blown saves) and had a disastrous start to the 2025 season, allowing runs in multiple appearances and posting a 27.00 ERA over his first inning pitched across three games.
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Roster Moves: To make room on the 26-man active roster for Bednar's demotion, the Pirates selected the contract of right-handed pitching prospect Thomas Harrington. Catcher Jason Delay was designated for assignment to open a spot on the 40-man roster for Harrington.
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Past Success: Bednar was an All-Star in 2022 and 2023, leading the National League with 39 saves in 2023 with a 2.00 ERA.
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Why this matters: This move highlights the volatility of relief pitchers and signifies a major shift in the Pirates' bullpen strategy. It removes a Pittsburgh native and formerly elite closer from the active roster as the team tries to address performance issues early in the season.
In-Depth Analysis
David Bednar's demotion marks a significant fall for a pitcher who was recently considered one of the league's top closers. A Pittsburgh native who attended Mars High School, Bednar's rise to hometown hero status included All-Star selections in 2022 and 2023. His 2023 campaign was particularly dominant, as he led the NL with 39 saves and posted a stellar 2.00 ERA.
However, struggles began to appear in 2024. His ERA ballooned to 5.77, accompanied by 7 blown saves in 30 opportunities. Manager Derek Shelton even removed him from the primary closer role in late August 2024, opting for a committee approach.
The start of the 2025 season exacerbated these concerns. In the opening series against the Miami Marlins, Bednar was involved in two walk-off losses, allowing a leadoff triple in one game and uncorking a wild pitch in another, contributing to a rough 1-4 start for the Pirates. His ERA stood at an alarming 27.00 after just one inning of work across three appearances.
The Pirates acquired Bednar in January 2021 as part of the three-team trade that sent Joe Musgrove to the San Diego Padres. The team hopes that a stint in Triple-A will allow Bednar, 30, to regain his form and confidence away from the Major League spotlight. The corresponding call-up of prospect Thomas Harrington signifies the team's focus on evaluating its pitching depth.
FAQs
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Q: Why was David Bednar optioned to Triple-A?
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A: Bednar was optioned due to significant performance struggles that began in the 2024 season and continued with a very poor start to the 2025 campaign, including multiple costly outings.
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Q: What were David Bednar's recent stats?
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A: In 2024, Bednar had a 5.77 ERA and 7 blown saves in 62 appearances. In his first three appearances of 2025 (1.0 inning), he allowed 3 earned runs for a 27.00 ERA and recorded two losses.
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Q: Who is replacing Bednar on the active roster?
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A: Right-handed pitching prospect Thomas Harrington has been called up to join the Pirates' active roster.
Key Takeaways
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Bullpen Uncertainty: The Pirates' late-inning relief situation is now less defined, potentially opening opportunities for other pitchers but adding instability.
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Opportunity for Reset: This move gives Bednar a chance to work on his mechanics and regain his confidence without the pressure of high-leverage MLB situations.
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Volatility Reminder: This serves as a stark reminder of how quickly reliever performance can change, impacting teams and fantasy baseball leagues. Fans should monitor who steps up in the Pirates' bullpen.
Discussion
This move sends shockwaves through the Pirates' fanbase. Do you think David Bednar can regain his All-Star form in Triple-A and return to the Pirates' bullpen effectively? Let us know!
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Sources & References
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MLB Trade Rumors: Pirates Option David Bednar
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Sports Illustrated: Pittsburgh Pirates’ David Bednar Sent Down to Minor Leagues
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