David Bednar Earns First Yankees Save, Ends Five-Game Skid Against Rangers

David Bednar secured his first save for the New York Yankees in a 3-2 victory over the Texas Rangers, ending the team's five-game losing streak. Acquired at the trade deadline from the Pittsburgh Pirates, Bednar pitched 1.2 scoreless innings, striking out all five batters he faced despite heavy usage by the Yankees bullpen earlier in the series. Manager Aaron Boone initially intended to pull Bednar in the ninth inning, but the pitcher insisted on finishing, ultimately striking out Adolis Garcia to close out the game. This performance may position Bednar as the Yankees' new closer, especially as Devin Williams has struggled recently, though Luke Weaver and Camilo Doval remain contenders for the role. Bednar's save was his 18th of the season, and he has displayed strong overall numbers, including a 2.55 ERA and a 1.16 WHIP. The Yankees will look to build on this momentum when they open a home series against the Houston Astros following a day off.