*Photo from Fantasy Alarm*
Reliever was a need, and they went after it. The Texas Rangers and RHP David Robertson have agreed to a one year, $11.5 million deal, according to Jeff Passan of ESPN. The Rangers have confirmed.
Robertson was a pivotal target at the 2023 trade deadline and was traded to the Miami Marlins as they attempted to push for the playoffs. They ultimately made it, but Robertson's struggles weren't helpful as he was demoted from the closing job. Now, he's off to the Rangers as they attempt to restock their bullpen to try to defend their title.
Last season, Robertson pitched for both the Marlins and Mets. He ended the regular season with a combined 3.03 ERA, 3.55 FIP, and 1.194 WHIP, averaging 10.7 strikeouts per 9 innings with 18 saves in 65 1/3 innings, making 62 appearances. He allowed two runs in two innings in the playoffs.
In May last season, Robertson reached 1,000 strikeouts, becoming the 14th pitcher to reach 1,000 strikeouts as a reliever. He has 11.8 strikeouts per 9 in his career, good for 6th highest in the modern era among pitchers who have thrown at least 500 innings.
Robertson has suited up for 7 different teams over 15 big league seasons. In that time, he has a 2.90 ERA, 1.159 WHIP, and 2.97 FIP, striking out 1,055 hitters and picking up 175 saves in 793 appearances, throwing 804 2/3 innings. In the postseason, he has a 3.04 ERA and 1.12 WHIP with one save in 42 appearances that total 47 1/3 innings.
In 2019, Robertson underwent Tommy John Surgery and came back with his career seemingly revitalized. Since returning in 2021 with the Tampa Bay Rays, he has a 2.87 ERA and 11.2 strikeouts per 9 in 141 innings pitched. His 175 saves are good for 72nd on the all time saves list.
The addition of Robertson is sure to help what was a volatile Rangers bullpen last year. Rangers relievers had a 4.77 ERA to finish 24th in the majors and went just 30-63 in save opportunities, just a 47.6 percent conversion rate.
While the Rangers have lost relievers Aroldis Chapman and Will Smith in free agency this offseason, the Rangers have added Robertson and Kirby Yates as they add leverage arms with Jose Leclerc set to be the closer.
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