All-Star Reliever Retires After 17 Seasons & 179 Saves

He sat out a large portion of last season, and now, at the age of 40, veteran reliever David Robertson has called it a career—retiring after 17 seasons.

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— David Robertson (@DRob30) January 30, 2026

Robertson's career started out on the right foot, as he was part of the last New York Yankees World Series team, in 2009, his second year in the majors. He went on to spend nine years of his career as a high-leverage reliever in the Bronx, in two separate stints. He made it back to the Series in 2022 with the Philadelphia Phillies, and wound up his career last season sitting out the first four months of the year, before suiting back up in August, back with the Phils.

He was an All-Star in 2011, earning Cy Young and MVP votes while pitching to a 1.08 ERA with a 100:35 strikeout to walk ratio in 66.2 innings.

He was also known as the man who replaced Mariano Rivera as the Yankees’ closer in 2014. All he did was register 39 saves, his first of three consecutive seasons of 30-plus saves.

“I’ve decided it’s time for me to hang up my spikes and retire from the game I’ve loved for as long as I can remember," wrote Robertson on his social media accounts.

"Baseball has given me more than I ever dreamed possible over the last 19 seasons. From winning a World Series, to pitching in an All-Star game, to representing the United States and bringing home a World Baseball Classic Gold and Olympic silver. I’ve had the privilege of playing alongside amazing teammates, learning from outstanding coaches, and being welcomed into organizations that felt like family. To the trainers, clubhouse staff, front offices, and everyone behind the scenes, thank you for all that you do. And to the fans who supported me, thank you, your passion fueled me every single day.

"Most importantly, thank you to my wife and children. Your love, sacrifice, patience, and dedication made this career possible. As I step away from the game, I’m excited to be home with my family, to focus on our farms, and to continue growing High Socks for Hope. Helping families rebuild after disaster has been one of the most rewarding parts of my life outside baseball.

"Saying goodbye isn’t easy, but I do so with deep gratitude for every opportunity, challenge, and memory. I’ll forever be thankful for the game and for everyone who made this journey extraordinary.”

Congrats to David Robertson on a tremendous 17-year career.