The Pittsburgh Pirates have been up and down lately, but one area where they’ve been consistently excellent is the ninth inning.
After a disappointing 2024 (3-8, 5.77 ERA), David Bednar is back to being one of the best closers in baseball. He’s been lights-out this year, notching a 2.19 ERA, a 1.05 WHIP and 51 strikeouts in 37 innings.
He’s also converted all 16 of his save opportunities, the most recent of which came on Saturday night. With the Pirates holding a 2-0 lead over the Arizona Diamondbacks at PNC Park, Bednar shut the door with a 1-2-3 ninth inning to secure the team’s 43rd win of the season.
The save was the 100th of Bednar’s career, all of which have come with Pittsburgh. That makes him just the sixth pitcher in Pirates history with 100 saves, joining Roy Face (188), Kent Tekulve (158), Mike Williams (140), Dave Giusti (133) and Mark Melancon (130).
With Bednar under contract through next season as well, he has a good chance to pass Melancon, Giusti and potentially Williams by the end of next year if he stays healthy.
Story continues below advertisement
After a slow start this season, the two-time All-Star has been one of the best closers in baseball over the last two months. Over his last 23 appearances, he’s allowed just one run (unearned) while posting a 0.67 WHIP and 28 strikeouts in 22 1/3 innings.
The 30-year-old righty hasn’t allowed a run since June 15, tallying 13 straight scoreless appearances out of the bullpen.
With Bednar back at the top of his game, he’s been a huge asset for Pittsburgh, which tends to play in a lot of tight, low-scoring games due to its shaky offense and strong pitching staff. Having Bednar essentially shorten the game by one inning has been massive for the Pirates, whose patience in their franchise closer has paid off after last year’s struggles.
Story continues below advertisement
More Pirates: Pirates Make Trade Deadline Need Crystal Clear With Historic Loss To Diamondbacks
Featured image via Charles LeClaire/Imagn Images