Pirates Roster Moves: David Bednar Returns From Stint in Minors

The Pittsburgh Pirates are recalling reliever David Bednar after a short stint with Triple-A Indianapolis.

Bednar was optioned on Apr. 1 after a poor start to the season. While with Indianapolis, Bednar threw 5.0-scoreless innings on one hit with seven strikeouts in five appearances.

The right-hander took the loss in two out of his three outings to start the year with Pittsburgh and allowed three runs on four hits despite recording only three outs.

Bednar’s struggles to open the 2025 season came on the heels of a disappointing 2024 campaign. In 62 relief appearances last season, Bednar went 3-8 with a 5.77 ERA before eventually losing his closer spot after blowing seven of his 30 save opportunities.

It was surprising to see Bednar struggle as bad as he did last season after what he did in his first three seasons with the Pirates.

Combined between 2021-23, Bednar established himself as one of the game’s premiere relief pitchers. In 172 games, he posted an impressive 2.25 ERA and struck out 226 batters in 179.2 innings. In addition to finishing 2023 tied for the National League lead with 39 saves, Bednar was an All-Star two years in a row from 2022-23.

Despite Kyle Nicolas’ struggles in the Pirates’ loss on Friday, the bullpen has performed well in Bednar’s absence.  Entering play on Saturday, the Pirates’ bullpen has combined for a 3.62 ERA while six relievers have a sub-3.00 ERA on the season.

Manager Derek Shelton said there is no corresponding move yet. One will be announced closer to game time.

The Pirates host the Cleveland Guardians at PNC Park at 4:05 p.m. ET.