Yankees' David Bednar Decision Remains Incredibly Controversial

The New York Yankees decided to extend a $23.15 million qualifying offer to David Bednar entering free agency, which should not surprise anyone.

If Bednar accepts, he will spend 2027 with the Yankees on that salary. If he declines, New York can either re-up with the right-hander on a multi-year contract or allow him to walk and receive a compensatory pick for its troubles.

But should the Yankees bring Bednar back on a long-term deal?

Bednar was brilliant for New York in 2026, posting a 2.47 ERA and 1.038 WHIP over 64 relief appearances. He had a really rough stretch early in the season, but from May 22 through the rest of the year, he allowed a grand total of seven earned runs.

It's clear that Bednar, who came over at the 2025 MLB trade deadline, has gotten comfortable in the Bronx, and that should not be taken for granted.

However, there is no question that there are some red flags when it comes to Bednar.

First and foremost, the Pittsburgh native just turned 32 years old, so a three-year contract (which is what most expect him to land) is a bit dicey.

That's especially when you consider the fact that Bednar's velocity dipped in 2026, as did his strikeout rate. As far as the latter, Bednar focused on becoming more of a ground ball pitcher, and it worked. But that was largely because his velocity was no longer there.

The Yankees could ultimately opt for comfort and re-sign Bednar. Again, he's proven he can pitch in pinstripes, and that's incredibly valuable in and of itself. And does New York really want to go looking for another closer?

But the Yanks haven't always had the best luck when it comes to handing lucrative long-term deals to relievers (see: Aroldis Chapman).

Plus, the Yankees have a bit of a pitching factory and have always been able to churn out good relievers, so perhaps they feel they can replace Bednar without spending $60 million.

It's also entirely possible New York would prefer to get younger and pursue Adrian Morejon on the free-agent market.

Whatever the case may be, Bednar will absolutely represent one of the toughest decisions the Yankees will have to make this winter.

It would stink to lose him considering how good he has been since coming over from the Pirates in 2025, but New York might also dodge a bullet by not giving him an expensive three-year contract.

We'll see what the Yankees ultimately decide to do.