SAN FRANCISCO — A Tale of David Bednar’s Journey

While the Yankees were storming the league with their powerful bats at the start of last season, David Bednar found himself in an entirely different situation in Pittsburgh. It might not be surprising, considering the stark contrast between the teams.

This 2023 All-Star closer faced an unexpected demotion to the minors after a rough start, struggling through three consecutive games. In light of a disappointing previous year, Bednar knew he needed a change.

“We considered every possible option,” he noted over the weekend as the Yankees continued their strong performance, mixing solid pitching with timely hitting.

“No matter my feelings about the demotion, it was my reality,” Bednar reflected. “I had to turn it into something positive, telling myself, ‘This will be beneficial for me.’ Honestly, if I hadn’t shifted my mindset, who knows where I’d be today?”

He found his place back with the Yankees, contributing significantly in their series against the Giants. The Yankees made quick work of them, similar to how they dominated the Brewers before the 2025 season opener.

Bednar’s stint with Triple-A Indianapolis was brief—just five games, with two saves in three earlier outings with the Pirates. By April 19, he was back, reclaimed as a full-time closer within a month.

When the trade deadline rolled around, Bednar played a pivotal role in reshaping the Yankees’ bullpen. Even though his performance wasn’t pristine during Saturday’s game at Oracle Park, he maintained composure, preserving a two-run lead unscathed.

“I trust he won’t buckle under pressure,” manager Aaron Boone commented post-game, echoing the confidence shared by Aaron Judge. “He always figures out how to navigate tough spots.”

This confidence was crucial, especially considering Bednar’s drop-off after his All-Star season. His statistics showed a worrisome uptick in walks and a decline in strikeouts that year.

However, he hadn’t anticipated returning to the minors. He credits his pitching coach at Triple-A for his turnaround.

“We needed to maintain consistency,” Bednar explained, acknowledging his pitching arsenal that includes a fastball, a curveball, and a splitter. “When I’m effective, it’s because I’m hitting my spots with all three pitches. A lot revolves around confidence.”

By the time he joined the Yankees, that confidence was back. They were unfazed by his prior struggles.

After rejoining the Pirates, Bednar showcased his skills over the final 39 games, allowing less than one baserunner per inning in 37 frames, with an impressive strikeout-to-walk ratio. He assumed the Yankees’ closer role deeper into the season, performing admirably when others faltered.

“Getting to this point wasn’t easy; it took a lot of work,” Bednar admitted. “I take pride in overcoming difficulties, learning all the way. You just have to push through.”

Now, he finds himself in the pivotal position of closing games, something that wasn’t guaranteed in Pittsburgh.

“I experienced a taste of the playoffs last year, and that’s ultimately what you aim for,” he concluded. “Being back on that big stage again makes me proud of my journey and the way I’ve tackled challenges.”