After winning the 2018 World Series, the Boston Red Sox find themselves without a closer. Former closer Craig Kimbrel elected to test free agency and is seeking a six-year deal, but there’s somebody else who would be a perfect fit for the Red Sox—David Robertson.
Robertson spent most of his career as a middle reliever for the New York Yankees but also spent time with the Chicago White Sox as a closer. The Yankees originally drafted him in 2006 as a long reliever. After making it to the Majors in 2008, Robertson struggled as a long reliever, causing him to become a middle reliever.
Three seasons later, Robertson found himself in the All-Star Game and on the Cy Young Award ballot. During his 2011 season, Robertson posted a 1.08 ERA with a 1.125 WHIP. He only allowed eight runs over 70 outings, only six of which ending with an earned run.
Robertson first closed in 2014 with the Yankees, tallying 39 saves with an ERA barely over 3.00. Robertson signed with the White Sox as a free agent and be a closer until being traded back to New York. During his four seasons as the closer, Robertson earned 124 saves.
More recently, Robertson dominated the 2017 season with a 1.84 ERA and 0.849 WHIP, but his 2018 numbers are slightly higher. Robertson made 69 appearances during the regular season and only gave up earned runs in 14 games.
Robertson mostly relies on his cutter and curveball. His cutter averaged at 92 mph in 2018 and his curveball averaged at 84 mph. He also has a slider, changeup, and sinker, which he rarely uses.
Robertson made an interesting move during the offseason, choosing to be self-represented instead of signing an agent. Rumors about the Red Sox and Robertson began when Yankees General Manager Brian Cashman revealed that Robertson would like to sign with a team close to his Rhode Island home.
As a reliable veteran reliever who wants to pitch close to the New England area, Robertson seems like the best choice for the new Red Sox closer.
