David Robertson, the seasoned reliever for the Texas Rangers, has made a pivotal decision to forgo his $7 million mutual option for the 2025 season, thus entering free agency. This choice activates a $1.5 million buyout and marks a significant shift for Robertson as he pursues new opportunities outside of his current team.
According to Jeff Wilson on X, “David Robertson, a right-handed pitcher, has declined the $7 million mutual option for 2025, making him a free agent.”
At the start of the year, Robertson signed a one-year contract with the Rangers worth $10 million, of which half was deferred. During the 2024 season, the 39-year-old pitcher demonstrated strong performance, recording a 3.00 ERA over 72 innings across 68 outings. His ability to strike out 99 batters while issuing only 27 walks underscores his effectiveness and durability as a pitcher.
Robertson’s career spans 16 years in Major League Baseball, during which he has played for several notable teams, including the New York Yankees, Chicago White Sox, Philadelphia Phillies, Tampa Bay Rays, Chicago Cubs, New York Mets, and Miami Marlins. His overall statistics are impressive, with a 2.91 ERA and 177 saves over his lengthy career in the majors.
Daniel Robertson becomes a free agent after parting ways with the Rangers
By declining the mutual option, Robertson may be positioning himself strategically, as his notable performance last season could enhance his market value. Approaching the common retirement age for athletes at 39, Robertson’s consistent output could make him an appealing target for teams in search of an experienced and effective closer or setup pitcher.
The upcoming offseason will be crucial for Robertson as he navigates the free agency process. His extensive experience combined with his recent success presents a compelling option for competitive teams or any organization seeking veteran leadership for their bullpen. Teams will need to consider his age and recent performance when negotiating contract terms that accurately reflect his potential contribution on the field.
As Robertson evaluates his options within the free agency market, the Rangers will also be faced with the challenge of filling the gap left by his exit. Successfully replacing his reliable late-inning pitching will require either developing talent within their current roster or making new acquisitions during the offseason.
Robertson’s long-lasting career, marked by resilience and dependability, is likely to continue drawing interest as teams gear up for the 2025 season, highlighting how experienced players can still make significant impacts in Major League Baseball. Fans and analysts will closely watch his progress and future moves as he takes the next steps in his career.
Image Source: David Robertson @ Instagram
