Bednar Emerges as Tigers’ Bullpen Option

Detroit is seeking ninth-inning help for 2027, having declined Kenley Jansen’s option. The Tigers’ bullpen recorded 31 blown saves in 2026, its worst total, and Bednar is among the available relievers who could fill the ninth-inning role. Detroit had considered pursuing him in 2025, when Pittsburgh made him available, but did not meet the Pirates’ prospect demands.

Bednar, 32, posted a 2.47 ERA with 35 saves and 1.9 WAR in 2026. The season capped a rebound after he posted a 5.77 ERA in 2025. His splitter became his primary pitch, accounting for 41.2% of his offerings, up from 19.7% the previous year. Batters hit .149 against it, with a .181 wOBA.

His fastball averaged 96.1 mph, down from 97.1 mph in 2025, while his increased splitter use and knuckle curve helped him limit hard contact. Bednar ranked in the 99th percentile in chase rate, the 88th in whiff rate and the 89th in barrel rate allowed. His strikeout rate fell to 27.1% from 34.3%, but he recorded a 2.61 FIP and a 20% strikeout-minus-walk rate.

The financial terms could be a hurdle. The Yankees made Bednar a qualifying offer worth $23.15 million, which he has until November 17 to accept or reject. If he turns it down and signs with Detroit, the Tigers would forfeit their third-highest pick in the 2027 draft. Projections put a potential deal at three years and $45 million to $55 million.