What's Happening?
David Robertson has been activated by the Philadelphia Phillies as they prepare for the stretch run of the 2025 MLB season. Robertson, a veteran reliever, returns to the Phillies for the third time, having previously played for them in 2019 and 2022. He signed a pro-rated, one-year contract worth $5.5 million on July 20, after spending time with the Texas Rangers in 2024. Robertson's addition comes as the Phillies aim to bolster their bullpen, which has seen improvements in ERA since the suspension of former top reliever José Alvarado. Robertson is expected to be eased into lower-leverage situations initially, joining a group of trusted relievers including Jordan Romano, Max Lazar, and Tanner Banks.
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Why It's Important?
The activation of David Robertson is significant for the Phillies as they seek to enhance their bullpen's performance during the critical final months of the season. With the bullpen ranking sixth in ERA in August, Robertson's experience and skill could provide additional stability and depth. His presence is particularly crucial as the team anticipates the return of José Alvarado from suspension on August 19. The Phillies' bullpen has been a key factor in their overall performance, and Robertson's addition could help them maintain their competitive edge in the race for playoff contention.
What's Next?
As Robertson joins the Phillies, the team faces decisions regarding the composition of their bullpen. With Alvarado's return imminent, the Phillies will need to determine which relievers will remain on the roster. Options include sending Max Lazar to Triple-A temporarily or parting ways with other relievers like Jordan Romano or Joe Ross. These decisions will be influenced by the team's strategic needs and the performance of the bullpen members in the coming weeks.
