Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher David Bednar. Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images

Former All-Star closer demoted to Triple-A by Pirates

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Grey Papke | Last updated Apr 1, 2025 4:24 PM ET

A two-time All-Star closer has been sent to the minor leagues after a rough start to the 2025 season.

The Pittsburgh Pirates announced Tuesday that they have optioned reliever David Bednar to Triple-A Indianapolis. The move comes after Bednar allowed four runs in his first three appearances of the season.

We have selected the contract of RHP Thomas Harrington to the 26-man Major League roster.

C Jason Delay has been designated for assignment to make room on the 40-man roster, and RHP David Bednar has been optioned to Triple-A Indianapolis to make room on the 26-man active roster.
— Pittsburgh Pirates (@Pirates) April 1, 2025

Bednar has experienced quite the fall from grace. He was an All-Star in 2022 and 2023, posting an ERA of 2.27 over a 119-inning stretch over those two seasons. He was a bright spot for a few Pittsburgh teams that did not win a lot of games.

Bednar’s struggles started in 2024, as he posted a 5.77 ERA in 62 appearances. The Pirates stuck with him and hoped he would rebound this season, but he was walked off by the Miami Marlins in two of his first three appearances. He allowed two runs in the other appearance, but still collected the save after entering the game with a three-run lead.

The Pirates are not completely giving up on Bednar, as the 30-year-old will get the chance to work through his issues at Triple-A. However, his future has to be considered uncertain at this point. The team is just 1-4 to start off the new season.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: