ARLINGTON — In a surprising twist just days before the trade deadline, David Bednar — widely seen as the top closer available — has made his decision, and it’s one few expected: he’s heading to Texas.
After weeks of buzz linking him to contenders like the Yankees, Phillies, Tigers, and Blue Jays, Bednar has opted to join the Texas Rangers, a move that’s sent shockwaves across the league. But what’s caught the most attention isn’t just where he’s going — it’s why.
“It wasn’t about the biggest stage or the flashiest offer,” Bednar reportedly told a source close to him. “It came down to passion, fit, and unfinished business. When I saw the Rangers, I saw a team with heart — and I wanted in on that storm.”
The 30-year-old right-hander has been a dominant force since 2021. Though he stumbled out of the gate this season, a stint in Triple-A sparked a massive turnaround. Since April 19, he’s posted a 1.70 ERA, an elite 1.47 FIP, and a 33.1% strikeout rate — reestablishing himself as one of the most dominant arms in the game.
Pittsburgh had made clear it would take a premium return to move Bednar, and the Rangers delivered — reportedly offering a package including big-league-ready talent and high-upside prospects.
While other clubs like New York and Philadelphia had deeper pockets and strong postseason résumés, Texas won Bednar over with vision and purpose. The Rangers pitched him not just on a ninth-inning role, but on becoming a key weapon in their October run.
Rangers GM Chris Young, who’s made bullpen help a top priority, was reportedly “blown away” by Bednar’s decision. “He looked us straight in the eye and said, ‘Let’s finish what you started last year.’ That hit everyone,” one team source said.
With Bednar now anchoring the back end of a bullpen that’s struggled for stability, the Rangers are making it clear they’re going all in. In the end, David Bednar didn’t chase the biggest spotlight — he chose Texas, and the fire they bring.
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