Story by
David Robertson’s plan after agreeing to contract with Phillies
- Story by
- David Robertson’s plan after agreeing to contract with Phillies
Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
The post David Robertson's plan after agreeing to contract with Phillies appeared first on ClutchPoints .
The Philadelphia Phillies have brought back veteran reliever David Robertson ahead of the MLB Trade Deadline. They signed him to a prorated one-year deal worth about $16 million for the rest of the 2025 season. He passed his physical to finalize the contract. Robertson will begin his return with a short stint at Triple-A Lehigh Valley, as per Bob Nightengale of USA Today. Starting in the minors shows a cautious approach, giving the 40-year-old time to get game-ready before rejoining the big-league bullpen for the stretch run.
Advertisement
This marks David Robertson's third stint with the Phillies, a franchise that has seen both the highs and lows of his career. His 2019 campaign was cut short by Tommy John surgery. But in 2022, he returned with a vengeance, posting a 2.70 ERA in 22 appearances. He played a key role during the Phillies' magical run to the World Series.
Following another strong season in 2024 with the Rangers, Robertson struck out 99 over 72 innings with a 3.00 ERA. Nevertheless, he remained unsigned this past offseason, despite drawing interest from contenders like the Yankees and Mets .
Philadelphia's bullpen has been in flux, especially after losing closer Jose Alvarado to an 80-game suspension . The club's relievers rank near the bottom of MLB in ERA, so Robertson's arrival gives the team a proven late-inning arm without costing young assets at the deadline. His presence could steady a group that has leaned heavily on Orion Kerkering , Matt Strahm , and Jeff Hoffman . It also frees the Phillies' front office to focus on upgrading the lineup before the MLB trade deadline closes .
Though Robertson is now 40, he has shown little sign of decline since he returned from surgery in 2021. Over the last four seasons, he has logged 200.3 innings with a 2.87 ERA and built a postseason résumé that includes a 3.04 ERA across 47⅓ playoff frames.
Advertisement
Once he proves sharp in Lehigh Valley, he's expected to rejoin the Phillies in a high-leverage role. That move gives the club a battle-tested arm for the playoff chase. With October aspirations looming and the trade deadline fast approaching, Robertson's reunion with Philadelphia feels both timely and strategic.
Now the question is: Can the former All-Star take the Phillies to the promised land?
Related: MLB rumors: Phillies 'probably No. 1' Mason Miller trade suitor if available
Related: Kyle Schwarber's legend grows with Hall of Fame story after All-Star Game heroics
