In a stunning turn of events, 40-year-old relief pitcher David Robertson, a 16-year MLB veteran, remains unsigned as the 2025 season nears its climax. After declining a $7 million mutual option with the Texas Rangers, Robertson entered free agency with high hopes but has yet to find a team willing to meet his staggering $10 million asking price. This past weekend, the former All-Star showcased his skills in a private workout, drawing scouts from multiple contenders eager to see if he can still deliver the heat in the pennant race.
Sunday Notebook: 18 biggest questions for MLB second half: Trade deadline targets, can Tigers win it all? https://t.co/v7wPXj6Qsa
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) July 20, 2025
Robertson’s 2024 performance with the Rangers was nothing short of impressive, boasting a 3.00 ERA and proving his reliability as both a closer and set-up man. With a career 2.91 ERA and a 66-46 record across eight teams—including the New York Yankees, Chicago White Sox, Philadelphia Phillies, New York Mets, Tampa Bay Rays, Chicago Cubs, Miami Marlins, and Rangers—Robertson’s resume speaks volumes. His 2011 All-Star nod with the Yankees remains a highlight of a career marked by versatility and clutch performances.
Yet, the $10 million price tag has raised eyebrows across the league. For a pitcher entering his fifth decade, the figure seems ambitious, especially after sitting out competitive play since last September. Contenders are now weighing whether Robertson’s experience and proven track record outweigh the risks of his age and time away from the mound.
Robertson isn’t alone in his free-agent limbo. Fellow former All-Stars Anthony Rizzo and J.D. Martinez have also struggled to secure contracts this season, though Martinez was recently linked to a potential reunion with the Rangers. As the July 31 trade deadline looms, the baseball world watches closely to see if Robertson’s gamble will pay off. Will a contender take a chance on the veteran reliever, or will his jaw-dropping salary demand keep him on the sidelines? Only time will tell.