David Bednar sidelined with injury to oblique

PITTSBURGH — The Pirates placed two-time All-Star closer David Bednar on the 15-day injured list on Sunday with a strained left oblique, retroactive to June 20.

Bednar last pitched on June 19, working a 1-2-3 ninth inning against the Reds to earn his 16th save of the season. Bednar would be eligible to be activated on July 4.

Pirates manager Derek Shelton called on Aroldis Chapman on Saturday to close out a 4-3 victory over the Rays. The veteran left-hander and setup man Colin Holderman are expected to handle the closing duties while Bednar is out.

Chapman has 323 career saves, third among active pitchers and 21st on the all-time list. Holderman is having an outstanding season with a 0.68 ERA in 28 games.

Bednar has converted 15 straight saves after blowing three of his first four opportunities this season. Overall, Bednar is 3-3 with a 5.17 ERA in 34 games.

Bednar had 39 saves last season, tied for the National League lead with the Giants’ Camilo Doval.

Left-handed reliever Justin Bruihl was recalled from Triple-A Indianapolis in a corresponding move. He pitched in six games for the Pirates earlier this month and had a 6.75 ERA.