Top Remaining Free Agent David Robertson Asking For Huge Price To Return

Veteran reliever David Robertson is asking a huge price to come back and pitch at age 40

While there are a number of teams with uncertain bullpen situations, one of the top high-leverage relievers in recent years, David Robertson, remains at home, just waiting for someone to meet his price.

The 40-year-old has shown no signs of slowing down in the past few seasons, recording a 3.00 ERA for Texas last year in 72 exceptional innings, holding opposing batters to a .202 average and a .571 OPS in a setup role. He recorded 38 saves the two seasons before that for a few different teams.

So what is that price that he's holding out for in order to get off his couch and re-enter The Show? According to Bob Nightengale, it's a 50% raise from last year:

Teams who inquired on veteran reliever David Robertson during the winter say he was seeking a one-year, $15 million deal. He has no plans to sign with a team now unless he receives a strong offer.

Free agent David Robertson asking for huge raise to return in 2025

Last season, Robertson signed with the Rangers for $10 million for 2024, and a mutual option for $7 million for 2025, which he declined this past November.

Many other older top free agent relievers this past offseason signed for around $10 million, including Kenley Jansen (LA Angels) and Aroldis Chapman (Boston Red Sox). But Robertson, who turned 40 in April, seems content to chill for now, until a team gets desperate enough to meet his high price.

Based on their desperate search to find a competent closer, the Rangers may still come calling.

In a 16-year career, Robertson has a stellar 2.91 ERA, 1.15 WHIP and 11.8 strikeouts per nine innings.