David Bednar started April in the minor leagues. He ended June as the National League reliever of the month.
The Pittsburgh Pirates closer earned the honors after recording five saves and not allowing an earned run in 10 appearances last month. Bednar had 16 strikeouts against three walks and gave up four hits in 10 innings.
A two-time All-Star, Bednar was demoted to Triple-A Indianapolis on April 1. Since being recalled on April 19, he has a 1.95 ERA in 28⅔ innings.
For the season, Bednar is 2-5 with a 2.73 ERA, 1.15 WHIP and 12 saves and is averaging 12.7 strikeouts per nine innings.
