Yankees' David Bednar Unfazed by Velocity Dip

Closer says early-season drop in fastball speed 'nothing to panic about'

Apr. 9, 2026 at 4:22am

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Yankees closer David Bednar has seen a slight dip in his fastball velocity in the early part of the 2026 season, but both he and manager Aaron Boone say they are not concerned about the issue. Bednar has struggled in his last few outings, allowing runs in three of his last four appearances, but he believes the velocity drop is simply due to the cold weather and early-season timing.

Why it matters

Bednar's performance as the Yankees' closer is crucial to the team's success, so any issues with his stuff or command are worth monitoring closely. The Yankees have high expectations this season and will need Bednar to regain his dominant form to lock down leads late in games.

The details

Bednar had earned a save in each of his first five appearances this season prior to Wednesday's loss to the A's, but he has struggled recently. In his last four games, Bednar has thrown 4 1/3 innings, allowing eight hits, a walk and three runs while striking out six. He said he got ahead of hitters but 'couldn't put them away' in the loss to Oakland.

  • Bednar has thrown 73 pitches in his last two consecutive appearances.
  • The Yankees' loss to the A's on April 8, 2026 was Bednar's third time allowing a run in his last four outings.

The players

David Bednar

The Yankees' closer who has seen a slight dip in his fastball velocity early in the 2026 season.

Aaron Boone

The Yankees' manager, who said he is not concerned about Bednar's velocity drop.

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What they’re saying

“It's early in the season and the weather [is cold]. It's nothing to panic about.”

— David Bednar, Yankees Closer

“I got ahead of guys and couldn't put them away. That can't happen in a game like that. I got in a jam, tried to get out of it and unfortunately wasn't able to.”

— David Bednar, Yankees Closer

What’s next

The Yankees will continue to monitor Bednar's velocity and performance as he works to regain his dominant form. If the issues persist, the team may need to consider adjustments to his usage or look at other options in the bullpen.

The takeaway

While Bednar's recent struggles are concerning, the Yankees and their closer remain confident that the early-season velocity dip is nothing to worry about long-term. Maintaining a strong bullpen will be crucial for the Yankees' championship aspirations this season.