David Bednar's Stats, Metrics, Game Logs, Projections & Rankings

Pittsburgh Pirates director of sports medicine Todd Tomczyk said that closer David Bednar (oblique) is playing catch out to 120 feet and will throw from the slope of a mound in the coming days. Bednar is throwing once again after going on the 15-day injured list on June 23 with an oblique strain. It wouldn't be a surprise if the 29-year-old right-handed reliever isn't ready to come off the injured list when he's eligible, but he still has a chance to rejoin the back of Pittsburgh's bullpen before the All-Star break in mid-July. The two-time All-Star has a rough 5.17 ERA on the year but also sports a 1.12 WHIP and 16 saves as the Pirates' primary closer when healthy, making him stash-worthy in all fantasy leagues. Veteran left-hander Aroldis Chapman will continue to see most of the team's save opportunities while Bednar is out.

Pittsburgh Pirates closer David Bednar (side) was placed on the 15-day injured list on Sunday afternoon with left side tightness. He was unavailable for Saturday's game and clearly needs extra time to recover. It is unclear how long he will be sidelined for. Bednar has been more sporadic than normal in 2024 as evidenced by his 5.17 ERA, but he has still converted 16-of-19 save opportunities and produced a 9.19 K/9. Aroldis Chapman should be the main beneficiary in Bednar's absence as he collected the save on Saturday. Chapman owns a 4.00 ERA, 1.67 WHIP, two saves, 13 holds and 45:27 K:BB this season. He is a worthwhile pickup for fantasy managers that are desperate for saves in the short term.

Pittsburgh Pirates closer David Bednar (side) was unavailable Saturday afternoon against the Tampa Bay Rays, per manager Derek Shelton. He is dealing with left-side soreness. Aroldis Chapman pitched the ninth and earned his second save. Bednar has three wins, 16 saves, a 5.17 ERA, and 32 strikeouts in 31 innings. It is unknown how serious the injury is or how long Bednar might be out. Should he miss any time, look for Chapman to fill in for him in the short term.