Meet David Bednar The Renegade Closer Boosting the Yankees Playoff Hopes

David Bednar: From High School Underdog to Yankees’ Star Closer

David Bednar’s journey to becoming the closer for the New York Yankees has been nothing short of remarkable. Before his rise to All-Star status with the Pittsburgh Pirates, Bednar honed his skills on an empty high school baseball field in Western Pennsylvania. His story isn’t just about talent; it reflects resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

The Early Days: Facing Rejection and Finding Opportunity

In 2012, just shy of Halloween, 18-year-old Bednar found himself at a crossroads. Despite his aspirations of playing Division I baseball, he had been turned down by top schools like Cornell and Villanova. With only a few Division II offers, his fastball peaked at 88 mph, leaving him off the MLB draft radar. However, a silver lining appeared when Joe Kinney, head coach of Lafayette College, drove five hours to scout him. Kinney offered Bednar three-quarters of a full scholarship worth $45,000 a year—a chance he eagerly accepted. At that moment, Bednar viewed it as a gateway to education, unaware of the major league aspirations that would later unfold.

Overcoming Doubts: A Steady Climb through the Ranks

Bednar faced numerous challenges on his path to the majors. Drafted in the 35th round, he fought through the minor leagues and faced setbacks, including a demotion to Triple-A after a successful stint in Pittsburgh. However, perseverance paid off when the Yankees acquired him at the trade deadline, looking to bolster their bullpen for the postseason.

• Bednar has posted a remarkable 2.19 ERA.
• He secured 10 saves in 13 opportunities across 22 appearances.
• He finished his regular season with a scoreless save in Game 162 against the Baltimore Orioles.

Proving His Worth: Establishing Himself in New York

Bednar’s transition to the Yankees has been seamless, as evidenced by his performance and demeanor on the mound. He has won the respect of teammates and coaches alike, thanks to his steadfast focus and mental fortitude. Bullpen coach Mike Harkey praised his lack of fear in high-pressure situations, and pitching coach Matt Blake emphasized Bednar’s strong arsenal, highlighting his confidence and preparedness.

A Closer’s Mentality: Passion for the Game

Bednar’s competitive spirit extends beyond the field. He is a devoted Pittsburgh Steelers fan and even incorporates their entrance music into his game, reliving memorable moments from football while standing on the pitcher’s mound. His love for the game and desire for impactful performances shine through as he embraces the challenges of being a closer in New York City.

Building a Legacy: From Small Town to Major League Success

Bednar’s success is rooted in his early experiences, where he developed a chip on his shoulder after being overlooked by many programs. He transitioned to become a dominant force at Lafayette, maintaining a 3.79 ERA in his final season while holding several squat records. Drafted by the San Diego Padres in 2016, he has since transformed into a key player for the Yankees with unwavering confidence.

The Future: A Bright Path Ahead for David Bednar

Now, as a vital component of the Yankees’ playoff strategy, Bednar reflects on his journey with pride. His evolution from a no-name pitcher in Pennsylvania to a confident closer showcases the power of perseverance in the face of rejection. As he continues to make a significant impact in the major leagues, Bednar’s story serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes everywhere.