Reports: Rangers adding RHP David Robertson to shore up bullpen

Field Level Media|published: Fri 26th January, 18:46 2024

Aug 14, 2023; Miami, Florida, USA; Miami Marlins relief pitcher David Robertson (19) reacts to a call from the umpire against the Houston Astros during the ninth inning at loanDepot Park. credits: Rich Storry-USA TODAY Sports

The Texas Rangers have agreed to a one-year deal with veteran right-handed reliever David Robertson, according to multiple reports.

MLB.com reported Robertson is guaranteed to earn $11.5 million. He will earn $5 million in 2024 with a mutual option of $7 million for 2025 that contains a $1.5 million buyout. Also, Robertson will annually receive $1 million a year in deferred money from 2027-31.

Robertson, who turns 39 in April, has 175 career saves and a 2.90 ERA in 793 career appearances (one start) over 15 big league seasons. He has a 63-42 record and has struck out 1,055 batters in 804 2/3 innings.

Robertson went 6-6 with a 3.03 ERA and 18 saves in 2023 while splitting the season with the New York Mets and Miami Marlins.

The Rangers won the World Series last season despite a weak bullpen so Robertson could compete for the closer role. Texas ranked 24th in the majors in bullpen EGA (4.77) and converted just 30 of 63 save opportunities.

Robertson has also pitched for the New York Yankees (two stints), Chicago White Sox, Philadelphia Phillies (twice), Tampa Bay Rays, Chicago Cubs, Mets and Marlins during a big league career that began in 2008 with the Yankees.

—Field Level Media