The Philadelphia Phillies should reunite with David Robertson after José Alvarado received an 80 game suspension and is ineligible for the postseason. Mark Feinsand of MLB.com reported on May 19 that the Phillies reached out to Robertson. Feinsand wrote that no extensive talks took place between the Phillies and Robertson. However, Feinsand added it is not out of the realm of possibility that Robertson has a third stint with the team. Robertson previously played for the club in 2019 and for part of the 2022 season. This would be Robertson’s age-40 season. Robertson has played for seven different teams in his major league career. The fit here makes a lot of sense, all things considered.
Robertson pitched for the Texas Rangers in 2024 and is currently a free agent. Last season, Robertson had a 3-4 record with a 3.00 ERA in 68 games. Robertson had a 2.65 FIP with a 3.67 K/BB rate in 2024. Additionally, opposing batters had a .201 average and a .300 BABIP against Robertson last season. Robertson had a 1.11 WHIP last season. In 29 outings as a Phillie, Robertson has a 1-4 record with a 3.30 ERA and six saves. Robertson has a 4.23 FIP and a 1.64 K/BB rate in a Phillies uniform. It is also worth noting that Robertson has pitched in 42 postseason games. In the postseason, Robertson has a 6-0 record with a 3.04 ERA. That extensive postseason experience is helpful for a team with championship aspirations.
Phillies Need To Reunite With Robertson
Urgency To Address Bullpen
Jordan Romano is set to see an increased workload as closer after Alvarado’s suspension. Matt Strahm will take over the role Alvarado was handling as the main left-handed closer option. The Phillies needed to upgrade the bullpen even before Alvarado was suspended. Alvarado’s suspension makes the need more pressing. Strahm and Tanner Banks are now the lone left-handed bullpen options.
Furthermore, Orion Kerkering will need to step up as he will take on more high-leverage spots. Signing Robertson would help shore up the Phillies ‘ high-leverage relief group. Romano and Strahm should not be put in a position where they must carry the bullpen.
Roster Considerations That Come Into Play
Robertson signing with the Phillies would mean someone would be the odd man out on the 26-man roster. With Aaron Nola on the injured list there are a few options. Max Lazar could be optioned to Triple-A Lehigh Valley if Robertson signs before Nola returns. Lazar, Kerkering, and Banks are the Phillies’ relief pitchers currently on the 26-man roster that have minor league options. Carlos Hernández is a candidate to be designated for assignment if the Phillies choose to go that route. Hernández has no minor league options. Furthermore, if Robertson were to sign immediately, going this route gives the team short-term roster flexibility. Nola is not expected to be out long.
Eventual Decision That Could Alter Plans
Andrew Painter is expected to arrive in the major leagues this summer. The Phillies will reach a crossroads when that time comes. This was the case even before Alvarado was suspended. Ranger Suárez is a potential trade candidate as he is in a contract year. Alvarado is also eligible to return before rosters expand to 28 on September 1. Adding Robertson could box the Phillies in a little bit if another move for a relief pitcher is made at the trade deadline. Robertson can be added without giving up any prospects, which is worth keeping in mind. If there is anyone who can navigate this type of roster crunch, it is Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski.
Image Credit: © Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
The post Phillies Should Reunite With David Robertson appeared first on Last Word On Baseball.