Pirates Unlikely to Reunite with Former Star in Free Agency

The Pittsburgh Pirates are entering into a crucial offseason following a successful 2026 season.

Even through the Pirates didn't make the playoffs, the team took another step forward in its development, finishing the season with a record of 82-80. Pittsburgh looked much more competitive this past year, with the team being in the National League playoff race until the final weeks.

As Pittsburgh enters the offseason, the front office is going to have to add some talent to help the group get over the long playoff drought. The Pirates could use some help in the bullpen, giving this unit more firepower to work with entering the 2027 season.

One move that has been discussed as the offseason gets started for the Pirates is the team bringing back star relief pitcher David Bednar, who has spent time with the New York Yankees of late. Pittsburgh traded Bednar to New York last season, and there has been talk of the team potentially looking to bolster the bullpen by bringing him back.

However, according to MLB insider Jon Heyman of The New York Post, the Yankees are expected to give a qualifying offer to Bednar this offseason. The qualifying offer for the upcoming offseason is projected to be a little over $23 million, which could price the Pirates out of the sweepstakes.

Bednar pitched very well for the Yankees, giving the impression that the veteran could get a strong offer in free agency. This past season, Bednar posted a 2.47 ERA while recording 35 saves for the Yankees.

The right-hander threw 69.1 innings, striking out 76 batters in the process, while only walking 20. New York was very happy with how Bednar performed, which is why they are likely giving him this qualifying offer.

The right-hander could accept the qualifying offer to remain in New York as well, giving him multiple options to choose from. If Bednar were to decline the offer to enter free agency, any team that signs him would then need to part with draft capital.

Pittsburgh may not be willing to do this just to sign Bednar back this offseason. While adding Bednar to the bullpen would be a nice story, while also giving the unit a boost, it seems like an unlikely move for Pittsburgh this offseason.

The Pirates could always surprise everyone to bring Bednar back, but only time will tell if Pittsburgh's front office goes against the grain.