The New York Yankees appear to have one of the strongest bullpens in Major League Baseball heading into the season. While the relief corps is already expected to perform at a high level, contending teams like the Yankees know you can never have too much pitching depth. With injuries always a possibility, it’s crucial to have reliable arms ready to step in and eat innings during the long regular season.
Given their current payroll, the most sensible move this offseason might be signing a veteran reliever on a low-cost deal.
Bleacher Report’s Zachary D. Rymer predicts just that, projecting the Yankees to sign veteran right-hander David Robertson to a one-year, $10 million contract. Rymer notes Robertson, who acts as his own agent, chose the Rangers last offseason partly because they were fresh off a World Series win. Now heading into his age-40 season, Robertson may be eyeing one last title run—and a return to the Yankees would be a fitting full-circle moment.
It wouldn’t be shocking if the Yankees chose not to add to their bullpen at all. The market for relief pitchers can get pricey, and New York might prefer to focus its resources on other areas of need. Still, ESPN’s Jeff Passan reported the Yankees could show interest once the asking prices drop.
Robertson a Logical Fit in the Bronx
A reunion with Robertson could benefit both sides. He was part of the Yankees’ 2009 World Series team and was dominant in that postseason, not allowing a run in over five innings. Though he’s no longer at his peak, Robertson was still effective last season, posting a 3.00 ERA.
His experience, reliability, and likely affordable price tag make him an appealing option. Eric Treuden of Just Baseball also named the Yankees as one of the top fits, noting the poetic nature of ending his career where it began. Treuden highlighted how Robertson made his name in New York as a key setup man and later closer from 2008–2014 and again during a brief return in 2017–2018.
With a bullpen full of high-strikeout arms, adding a veteran like Robertson would not only bolster the staff but also bring a fan-favorite story full circle.
