Is David Bednar One of the Best Pirates Closers Ever?

S. Samek

The Pittsburgh Pirates seem to always find a good closing pitcher in recent years. Even when one is traded away the usually find a replacement easily. Currently David Bednar is filling that role. He has two all-star game selections and as of this writing has converted 47 of 56 save opportunities while wearing black and gold. He was also gaining ground as a possible trade candidate during the deadline. So just how good is Bednar against the top five from our list?

Save Percentage

Bednar is at 84 percent based on established 47 of 56 saves in Pittsburgh.

Jason Grilli was at 88 percent according to our list 44 of 50 saves.

Jose Mesa was at 85 percent 70 of 82

Matt Caps was at 67 of 89 for 75 percent.

Mike Williams 117 of 133 which is about 88 percent.

Mark Melancon 130 of 144 is a 90 percent success rate.

Bednar is fifth on that list, but pretty close to matching Mesa for fourth. Though this season his 25 saves in 28 chances for an 89 percent success rate is up there with the best.

Total Saves

Bednar’s 47 saves are tied for 15th all-time in Pirates history. According to these stats Grilli also has 47 saves giving them a tie. Bednar is also behind the rest of the top five from our list in total saves.

Single Season saves.

Melancon has the franchise record with 51 during the 2015 season. Williams is second with 46 in 2002 and Mesa had a 43 save season in 2004. Bednar currently has 25 saves in 121 games. That means he would need 27 saves in 41 games to beat the single season record. Which is unlikely. Though if he can save six more games, he will tie Kent Tekulve in 1979 for the 10th most saves in a single season by a Pittsburgh Pirate. A much more manageable goal.

All-Star apperences.

Bednar has two all-star selections. Melancon and Williams also were named to a pair of All-Star teams. So, Bednar is near the top of the table in being an All-Star.

Overall Bednar is doing well, but I don’t think he’s one of the greatest closers of all-time for the Pirates. I think in a couple years of success he could move onto the list.