David Robertson, a right-handed relief pitcher, began his Major League Baseball career with the New York Yankees. Drafted in the 17th round of the 2006 MLB Draft, Robertson quickly ascended through the minor leagues, making his MLB debut on June 29, 2008. Known for his effective fastball and curveball combination, he became a reliable arm in the Yankees' bullpen.
During his early years with the Yankees, Robertson established himself as a dependable setup man. In 2011, he was selected for the All-Star Game, a testament to his performance that season. He finished the year with a remarkable 1.08 ERA and 100 strikeouts in 66.2 innings, earning him the nickname "Houdini" for his ability to escape high-pressure situations.
Robertson's role evolved in 2014 when he became the Yankees' closer following the retirement of Mariano Rivera, one of the greatest closers in baseball history. That season, he recorded 39 saves and maintained a solid 3.08 ERA, proving his capability to handle the ninth inning.
After the 2014 season, Robertson entered free agency and signed a four-year contract with the Chicago White Sox. He continued to perform well as a closer, recording 34 saves in 2015 and 37 saves in 2016. Despite his individual success, the White Sox struggled as a team, leading to a rebuilding phase.
In July 2017, Robertson was traded back to the Yankees as part of a multi-player deal. He resumed his role as a key bullpen piece, helping the team reach the postseason. His experience and skill were valuable assets during the Yankees' playoff runs in 2017 and 2018.
Robertson's next career move came in January 2019 when he signed a two-year contract with the Philadelphia Phillies. Unfortunately, his time with the Phillies was marred by injuries. He underwent Tommy John surgery in August 2019, which sidelined him for the entire 2020 season.
In 2021, Robertson made a comeback, signing a contract with the Tampa Bay Rays. He contributed to the Rays' bullpen during their playoff push, showcasing his resilience and ability to return to form after significant setbacks.
Throughout his career, Robertson was known for his consistency and ability to perform under pressure.
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