Yankees Share Good News Amid 7-Game Losing Streak

Mark J&period; Rebilas-Imagn Images

Yankees Share Good News Amid 7-Game Losing Streak

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Miracle Dimwesh | Last updated Jul 2, 2026 1:53 PM ET

The New York Yankees received a welcome boost Thursday as they reinstated closer David Bednar from the paternity list while trying to snap a seven-game losing streak. The move returns one of the club's most important late-inning relievers during its longest skid of the season.

Bednar's return gives the bullpen another experienced arm after a brief absence. It also restores the Yankees' primary closer as they look to regain momentum before the All-Star break.

The 31-year-old has converted 16 saves this season and remains a key part of New York's bullpen. The New York Yankees announced the roster move Thursday afternoon.

Today, the Yankees reinstated RHP David Bednar (#53) from the paternity list.
— Yankees PR Dept. (@YankeesPR) July 2, 2026

Bednar was placed on the paternity list on June 29 and missed only a few games. The New York Yankees recalled right-hander Jake Bird to fill his roster spot during that time.

The two-time All-Star was acquired from the Pittsburgh Pirates at the 2025 trade deadline and has become one of New York's most dependable relievers. He owns a 3.09 ERA, 16 saves, 40 strikeouts, and a 1.23 WHIP across 35 innings in 33 appearances.

Bednar has handled the club's highest-leverage situations throughout the season. His return gives manager Aaron Boone his top closer back as the New York Yankees try to end their losing streak.

New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone (17)Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images

The New York Yankees entered Thursday with a 48-38 record and sat second in the American League East. Despite the recent skid, they remain within striking distance of the division lead.

Getting Bednar back restores an important piece of the bullpen for the second half. His return gives the New York Yankees another opportunity to stabilize the late innings as they work to end their seven-game slide.

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

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