New York Yankees Just Dropped a Scary David Bednar Hint

The New York Yankees had one of the better bullpens in baseball this past season thanks to the late-inning triumvirate of Brent Headrick, Paul Blackburn and David Bednar.

The problem? Blackburn and Bednar are both free agents, and both pitchers will probably command hefty contracts — Bednar in particular.

The Yankees extended a qualifying offer to Bednar, and if he accepts, he will make just over $23 million in the Bronx next season. But he seems likely to receive a lucrative multi-year offer from someone.

On that subject, Yankees general manager Brian Cashman seems unsure if he will be able to retain either Blackburn or Bednar this winter.

“Two of the three pitchers going into our eighth and ninth inning are gone; Blackburn and Bednar right now are free agents, so we’ve got our work to do,” Cashman said. “And because of that, I am casting a wide net. We are asking around, and we need to find some stuff so we can feel good and sleep at night.”

When Cashman says they are "gone," he probably doesn't mean permanently. He just means they are no longer under contract. But he didn't exactly give any indication that either reliever will be back in 2027.

That's tough news for New York, especially when it comes to Bednar.

The Yankees acquired Bednar at the 2025 MLB trade deadline and watched as he ultimately developed into a shutdown closer for the ballclub.

Yes, he had his fair share of struggles in early 2026, but he was dominant for most of the season, posting a 2.47 ERA and 1.038 WHIP over 64 appearances. He allowed just seven earned runs after May 19, and he posted sub-1.00 WHIPs three months in a row between June and August.

Bednar has been a very reliable presence for New York, so it would definitely be difficult if he departs.

The Yanks don't really have any definitive closer options in house. Headrick is likely to stay in a middle relief role. Carlos Lagrange is a possibility, but he has yet to even taste the big leagues.

If Bednar does walk, it seems more likely the Yankees will find an external replacement, which is why Cashman said he has bene calling around.

Of course, the Yankees could always re-sign Bednar. It's still a possibility. But whether or not New York would want to spend significant long-term money on a 32-year-old relief pitcher remains to be seen.