David Bednar Bio
David Jeffrey Bednar, nicknamed ‘The Renegade’ and El Oso, is an American professional baseball pitcher for the New York Yankees of Major League Baseball (MLB). He has previously played for the San Diego Padres and Pittsburgh Pirates. The Padres selected him in the 35th round of the 2016 MLB draft. Bednar has established a reputation for his pitching skills and has been recognized as an All-Star in both 2022 and 2023, showcasing his talent within the league.
Early Life and Background
David Bednar was born on October 10, 1994, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and raised in Mars, Pennsylvania. He attended Mars Area High School, where he began to develop his skills in baseball. Although he went undrafted out of high school, Bednar continued his education and baseball career at Lafayette College in Easton, Pennsylvania, where he played for the Lafayette Leopards. His time in college helped him refine his pitching abilities and prepared him for a professional career.
Path to Baseball
After his collegiate career, David Bednar was drafted by the San Diego Padres in the 35th round of the 2016 MLB draft. He signed with the team and began his professional journey in the minor leagues. Bednar’s early years in the minors included stints with the Tri-City Dust Devils and the Fort Wayne TinCaps, where he showcased his talent and began to attract attention within the organization. His performance in the minor leagues laid the groundwork for his eventual promotion to the major leagues.
David Bednar Career
Early Career (2016–2019)
David Bednar made his professional debut in the 2016 season, splitting time between the Tri-City Dust Devils and the Fort Wayne TinCaps. He recorded a combined 4–4 win-loss record with a 2.32 earned run average (ERA) in 31 innings pitched. Over the next few years, he continued to improve, playing for various minor league teams, including the Lake Elsinore Storm and the Amarillo Sod Poodles. His dedication and hard work paid off when he was called up to the major leagues in September 2019.
Breakthrough (2021–2023)
On September 1, 2019, David Bednar made his major league debut with the San Diego Padres against the San Francisco Giants, pitching a scoreless inning in relief. He faced challenges in his first two seasons, but his breakthrough came when he was traded to the Pittsburgh Pirates in January 2021. In his first full season with the Pirates, Bednar posted a 3–1 record with a 2.23 ERA and 77 strikeouts in 61 appearances, earning a single vote in National League Rookie of the Year voting. His performance continued to improve, leading to his selection as an All-Star in both 2022 and 2023.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, David Bednar has established himself as a reliable pitcher, earning accolades such as being named the National League saves leader in 2023. His signature work includes his performances in the All-Star games and his contributions to the Pittsburgh Pirates during critical moments.
David Bednar Award Nominations
David Bednar has received recognition for his outstanding performances, including nominations for the National League Rookie of the Year in 2021. His consistent pitching has earned him a place among the top players in Major League Baseball.
David Bednar Awards Won
David Bednar has been honored with multiple awards during his career, including being named an All-Star in 2022 and 2023, as well as being recognized as the National League saves leader in 2023. These accolades reflect his skill and dedication to the sport.
David Bednar Family
David Bednar was born into a family that supported his athletic endeavors. His younger brother, Will Bednar, is also a pitcher and currently plays in the San Francisco Giants organization. The Bednar family has a strong connection to baseball, which has influenced David’s career.
Personal Life
David Bednar’s nickname, ‘The Renegade,’ is inspired by the Styx song of the same name, which is often played at Pittsburgh Steelers games. His teammates gave him the Spanish nickname ‘El Oso’ during the 2025 season, reflecting the camaraderie he shares with his fellow players. Bednar continues to reside in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where he remains connected to his roots.