Who is the Pirates Closer in 2024? Fantasy Baseball Saves Outlook

The Pittsburgh Pirates were a surprise team to start the 2023 season after a hot start in April. They were 20-9 heading into May and stood atop the NL Central. However, reality quickly set in. The Pirates went just 8-18 in May and 11-15 in June to drop in the standings. 

A lot of factors went into Pittsburgh's poor records in May and June, including the bullpen. The Pirates bullpen had a 5.08 ERA during those two months (third-highest in the majors). If the team wants to make any noise this year, the bullpen has to be locked down in the later innings. 

So, who is the Pirates current starting closer? Who could take his job in 2024?

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Who is the Pirates Starting Closer?

The Pirates roster one of the best closers in the game in David Bednar, and there's no question that he will be the team's closer in 2024. Bednar has been an elite option out of the bullpen for the past three years, two of which as a closer.

In 2021, he finished with a 2.23 ERA across 61 appearances. Then, in 2022, he finished with a 2.61 ERA and 19 saves in 51.2 innings pitched. Last year, though, was his best campaign as the right-hander finished with 39 saves and a 2.00 ERA. His 39 saves were tied for the most in the National League with Camilo Doval. 

David Bednar Improving From Lat Tightness https://t.co/ZKHtLbI2iz

— RotoBaller MLB (@RotoBallerMLB) March 11, 2024

Bednar has been a consistent closer for Pittsburgh, which shouldn't change in 2024. He only blew three saves last season and made his second straight All-Star appearance. The 29-year-old will be the Pirates closer again this year. 

Who Could Take His Job in 2024?

It would be a long shot for anyone to take Bednar's job in 2024. He is coming off his best season and only gave up an earned run in just 10 of his 66 appearances. The closer role is definitely his job for the entire year.

Nevertheless, the right-hander is currently dealing with a right lat injury that has kept him out of spring training games. He threw a bullpen session on March 15 and continues to make strides in his recovery. However, if he isn't ready for Opening Day, then look for the Pirates to lean on newly acquired pitcher Aroldis Chapman in the later innings. 

The Pirates are signing Aroldis Chapman, per @francysromeroFR pic.twitter.com/RmDw1VzAjU

— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) January 23, 2024

Bednar is in no danger of losing his job to Chapman, though, the flame-throwing left-hander can step up in that role whenever the 29-year-old is unavailable. The seven-time All-Star has 321 career saves. 

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