Ben Cherington Addresses David Bednar’s Status After Live BP

PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Pirates are one step closer to getting back injured closing pitcher David Bednar.

Bednar, who was placed on the injured list on June 23 (retro to June 20) with a left oblique strain, threw a live BP at PNC Park on Saturday afternoon prior to the Pirates’ game against the New York Mets.

Bednar faced outfielder Jack Suwinski and infielder Jared Triolo before doing some pitcher fielding practice. He threw 21 pitches and utilized his full arsenal.

Shortly after Bendar finished throwing, Pirates general manager Ben Cherington met with members of the media and addressed Bednar’s status.

“I haven’t even had a chance to download and watch it. It seemed like it went well,” he said. “We’ll get a report on that from him and our staff and go from there. Short enough period of time that he’s been down, assuming that went well, that he’s on a mound now facing hitters that, knock on wood, we’re getting close.”

So far this season, Bednar has posted a 3-3 record with a 5.17 ERA with 16 saves. The two-time All-Star stumbled out of the gate but had been pitching well prior to his injury. From May 4 until his last appearance on June 19, Bednar had a 1.77 ERA across 21 appearances. He’s also converted each of his last 15 save opportunities.

Though he still has yet to be activated, Bednar became eligible to come off the injured list on Friday. Since it’s been a relatively short stint on the IL, he may be able to avoid a rehab assignment with Triple-A Indianapolis.