Yankees uncertain if they'll extend qualifying offer to Robertson

The New York Yankees have an expensive decision to make regarding closer David Robertson. 

A seven-year veteran, Robertson is set to hit free agency next month and the Yankees are still unsure if they will extend the $15.3 million qualifying offer in order to retain his services for next season. 

"What happens as we move forward with him and the qualifying offer is yet to be determined, but we thank David and we're proud of what he's done here and how he's handled himself here," general manager Brian Cashman told Bryan Hoch of MLB.com. "The final decision that has to be made here, first and foremost, is yet to be made."

Selected in the 17th round in 2006 by the Yankees, Robertson had the unenviable task of taking over for future Hall of Famer Mariano Rivera as the Yankees closer. In 64 1/3 innings, the right-hander earned 39 saves, while posting a 3.08 ERA and striking out 96 batters. 

Robertson said in August that he'd been open to signing an extension for a discount, but without an offer, he acknowledged that he'd have to do what was best for his career. 

On the heels of rookie Dellin Betances' phenomenal season in the bullpen, the Yankees could look to replace Robertson with the 23-year-old, who produced 135 strikeouts and a 1.40 ERA in 90 innings. 

Clubs have until 5 p.m. ET on the fifth day following the World Series to make a qualifying offer, and players have until 5 p.m. ET on the 12th day after the World Series to accept it.