Yankees Set to Give Closer David Bednar Significant Pay Raise Through Arbitration
As the New York Yankees prepare for the offseason, they face important arbitration decisions for up to 14 players seeking salary increases for the upcoming season. Among these players is two-time All-Star closer David Bednar, who joined the Yankees at the trade deadline from the Pittsburgh Pirates in exchange for multiple prospects. According to a projection by Chris Kirschner of The Athletic, Bednar is expected to receive a substantial pay increase, potentially earning around $9 million in 2026 – a 52.54% jump from his current $5.9 million salary. This raise reflects Bednar’s value to the team, particularly as the 31-year-old reliever combined for 27 saves between Pittsburgh and New York this past season.
Bednar’s journey to this point hasn’t been entirely smooth. Earlier in the season, he was optioned to Triple-A Indianapolis while with the Pirates, but he managed to turn his performance around significantly. After joining the Yankees, he demonstrated the reliability and effectiveness that initially earned him All-Star recognition. With Devin Williams unlikely to return to the team, Bednar is positioned to be the Yankees’ primary closer moving forward, giving the team stability in a crucial role. His ability to lock down games will be essential as the Yankees continue to build a roster capable of deep playoff runs.
From a financial perspective, paying $9 million for an established closer represents solid value in today’s MLB market. While the sum is significant, it wouldn’t strain the resources of a franchise with the Yankees’ financial capabilities. General Manager Brian Cashman has shown a willingness to invest in bullpen talent, understanding that reliable late-inning relief pitching is often the difference between winning and losing close games, especially in the postseason. This arbitration settlement would reward Bednar’s performance while still providing the Yankees with good value relative to what elite closers command on the open market.
The timing of this arbitration case is particularly important as this will be Bednar’s final arbitration year before he becomes eligible for free agency after the 2025 season. The Yankees’ handling of this situation could influence whether Bednar considers a longer-term future with the organization. By paying him a fair market value now, the Yankees would demonstrate good faith that might make Bednar more receptive to extension discussions before he hits the open market. For a team with championship aspirations, maintaining continuity in the closer role provides valuable stability.
While Bednar’s case stands out, the Yankees must also navigate arbitration with other notable players, including Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Anthony Volpe. Chisholm, acquired from the Miami Marlins, brought dynamic athleticism and versatility to the Yankees’ lineup, while Volpe continued to develop as the team’s shortstop of the future. How the Yankees handle these arbitration cases collectively will significantly impact their payroll flexibility for other offseason moves, including potential free agent signings or trades to address remaining roster needs.
The investment in Bednar represents the Yankees’ commitment to building a dominant bullpen for postseason success. October baseball often comes down to bullpen management, with close games decided by late-inning relief pitching. By securing Bednar at a fair but still team-friendly price, the Yankees aim to strengthen one of the most critical components of a championship team. If Bednar continues his trajectory as an elite closer, the projected $9 million salary could prove to be a bargain, especially if he helps guide the team deeper into the postseason in 2025 – potentially his final year in pinstripes unless the two sides reach an extension agreement.
