The Miami Marlins are making moves to strengthen their bullpen as they push for a playoff spot. Marlins general manager Kim Ng wasted no time in upgrading the bullpen before the trade deadline, acquiring Mets closer David Robertson late Thursday night. The Marlins will take on the remaining $3.5 million owed to Robertson this season.
This is the third addition to the Marlins’ bullpen this week. On Wednesday, the team traded Dylan Floro for Minnesota right-hander Jorge López, who is considered a bounce back candidate. On Tuesday, the Marlins received left-hander José Castillo from the Padres.
Ng emphasized the importance of bolstering the bullpen quickly, saying, “It was really important to get something done quickly. For me, the bullpen was the highest priority, and making sure that we stabilize and get it done quickly before — it’s so easy to get cherry-picked during this time. And like I said, if you see something you really like, and it makes sense, you just do it.”
The trade details are as follows: The Marlins acquired David Robertson, and in return, the Mets received Marco Vargas and Ronald Hernández.
Robertson has been solid in save opportunities this season, converting 14 out of 17 chances. He has a 2.05 ERA and a 1.00 WHIP in 40 appearances. His Stat cast percentile rankings are well above average in several categories. Robertson brings a wealth of experience to the Marlins, with 171 career saves and a World Series ring from his time with the Phillies in 2022.
Manager Skip Schumaker expressed his enthusiasm for the new addition, saying, “The guy that we got last night’s pretty good. He’s been there before: closer, big stage, lots of postseason experience. Having another great year this year, gets righties and lefties out, really good against lefties. Ninth-inning experience. As far as role, you’ll see him late, probably the latest. With A.J. [Puk] and Tanner [Scott] both having some ninth-inning experience, David will have a really good shot of being the ninth-inning guy. He’s not going to be able to throw every single ninth inning, but I think you’ll see him in that closing role for sure.”
The addition of Robertson comes at a crucial time for the Marlins, who have struggled in the second half of the season. Despite dropping nine of their 11 games since the All-Star break, they are just half a game out of an NL Wild Card spot. A strong bullpen will help the Marlins in close and low-scoring games.
Robertson will join the Marlins for Saturday’s game against the Tigers.
Speaking to reporters, Robertson expressed his excitement about joining the Marlins and the potential for a playoff run. He said, “[The Marlins have] got a lot of talent, too. All you’ve got to do is get in. Twelve teams get in. Get a ticket to the dance, see what happens. Look at us with Philly last year: We were not the best team, but we got hot at the right time and almost won a World Series.”
The addition of Robertson provides much-needed depth to the Marlins’ relief corps. With many left-handed pitchers in the bullpen, Robertson adds a right-handed high-leverage arm.
In exchange for Robertson, the Marlins sent infielder Marco Vargas and catcher Ronald Hernández to the Mets. Both prospects are playing in the Rookie-level Florida Complex League.
Robertson acknowledged the challenges of being the subject of trade rumors but expressed his willingness to embrace his new team. He said, “Now, I’m being moved, and I’m going to go down and enjoy my time in Miami and join another group of guys that are trying to win ballgames.”
With the addition of David Robertson, the Marlins hope to solidify their bullpen and make a strong push for a playoff spot. The veteran closer brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record, making him a valuable asset for a team vying for postseason contention.
