Skip to content

3 potential landing spots: David Robertson

Brad Penner / USA TODAY Sports

Following in the footsteps of Mariano Rivera isn't easy, and now David Robertson wants to be paid like an elite closer. 

The free-agent pitcher is one of the top relief arms on the open market this offseason, and is looking for a four-year pact worth around $50 million.

Here are three potential landing spots for Robertson:

Chicago White Sox

Chicago's closer-by-committee approach failed miserably last season. White Sox relievers blew 21 saves, with Jake Petricka, Ronald Belisario and Matt Lindstrom squandering four opportunities apiece. Six different hurlers recorded a save for Chicago, demonstrating the need to establish a clear-cut closer for the 2015 campaign.

Robertson certainly fits the bill and the White Sox have shown they're serious about contending next season by already signing Zach Duke and Adam LaRoche to multi-year deals. Landing Robertson would send a serious message to the other teams in the American League Central and quite possibly have Chicago competing for a playoff spot in 2015.

New York Yankees

The Yankees have a long list of needs this offseason, but general manager Brian Cashman isn't closing the door on the idea of retaining Robertson's services.

“The one thing we do have a feel for is how good of a player he is, how good of a person he is, how great of a competitor he is," Cashman said at the GM meetings. "In the New York environment, he’s not afraid. He checks every box off. He came in behind Mariano Rivera, (It was a) seamless transition. That’s certainly no easy task."

Cashman could hand over the closer duties to fireballer Dellin Betances, or seek a more affordable option on the market. Proven closers Sergio Romo, Francisco Rodriguez, Casey Janssen and Jason Grilli could be alternatives.

Chicago Cubs

The Cubs turned the ball over to Hector Rondon, who notched 29 saves with a 2.42 ERA, in high-leverage situations last season. Unfortunately, Rondon was the only reliable reliever in a bullpen that lacked depth. The Cubs are looking to spend this offseason, and already got the party started by luring manager Joe Maddon away from Tampa Bay.

The Cubs' main priority this winter is landing a high-profile starter (Jon Lester), so pursuing Robertson may be on the back burner until the rotation is solidified. Chicago's future looks bright as its young talent inches closer to being big-league ready. Acquiring a proven closer like Robertson to complement Rondon would certainly help the team's chances in the ultra-competitive National League Central.

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox