2023 Trade Profile: David Robertson

David Robertson

Position: Relief Pitcher

Bats/Throws: R/R

Age: 38 (April 9, 1985)

2023 Traditional Stats: 2.13 ERA, 1.039 WHIP, 42 1/3 IP, 2.8 BB/9, 10.0 SO/9

2023 Advanced Stats: 3.67 FIP, 195 ERA+, 28.1 SO%, 7.8 BB%, 3.0 HR%, 19.0 LD%, 42.9 GB%, 26.7 FB%, 88.3 average EV

Rundown

The New York Mets signed David Robertson to a one-year for $10 million in December of 2022. At the time, he was brought in to be the team’s primary setup man. But as soon as Edwin Díaz suffered a tear of his right patella tendon during the World Baseball Classic, it was a forgone conclusion to Robertson would step in to the closer role. He has thrived in the high-leverage moments, earning 13 saves through 38 appearances this season.

Robertson got off to a fantastic start, ending the month of April with a 0.79 ERA in 11 1/3 innings. He continued that form with a 2.08 ERA in May, recording a total of five saves during that stretch. The month of June was unusual for the right-hander, as he only recorded one save. A handful of his appearances came in non-save situations as a result of the Mets’ inability to retain early leads. Still, Robertson was able to keep his composure and pitch to a respectable 3.09 ERA during that month.

He is primarily a reliever that works with a three-pitch mix, going to his cutter (49.2%), curveball (28.7%) and slider (18.5%) more often than not. He does have a four-seam fastball is his arsenal, although he has only used it 14 times this season according to his Baseball Savant. Robertson’s best pitch is his cutter, as opponents are hitting .143 with a .206 slugging percentage against it. His curveball has been a dominant weapon as well, with the opposition owning a .211 batting average and a .386 slugging percentage against the breaking ball. In total, 41 of Robertson’s 47 strikeouts have come on the cutter and curveball.

If the Mets make him available, Robertson will be one of the best relievers on the trade market. The veteran has a 2.78 postseason ERA throughout his career, so he is not a pitcher that will be overwhelmed by the big moment. Robertson would be able to step into any bullpen and contribute immediately.

The question is, will the Mets be willing to let go of him prior to the trade deadline? New York could receive a solid prospect or two if they choose to move on from him.

Potential Landing Spots

1. Los Angeles Dodgers

The Dodgers are one of the best teams in the National League, but if they want to return to the World Series for the first time since 2020, addressing the pitching staff will be a priority. Their bullpen is currently without Daniel Hudson, Blake Treinen, and Shelby Miller to name a few. So, adding a reliever like Robertson would fill a massive hole. Acquiring him would allow Dave Roberts to mix and match Evan Phillips and the current Met in the closer role.

2. Texas Rangers

Yes, Texas traded for Aroldis Chapman a few weeks ago, but it never hurts to strength the backend of the bullpen. The Rangers should go for it and add another arm, especially when that is considered to be the weakest link of their team. Robertson would be a great compliment to Chapman and Will Smith, both of which are left-handed pitchers.

3. Arizona Diamondbacks

Not the flashiest organization, but the Diamondbacks are another squad that should consider going after him. They rank 21st in bullpen ERA at 4.29, which is not good for a team that is 54-45 and currently holds the top Wild Card spot in the National League. Arizona is young and hungry, so they can use a veteran like Robertson who can immediately become the team’s closer.