The case for Rangers to re-sign this underrated reliever

The Texas Rangers will certainly attempt to properly align their bullpen this winter. While they may try to do so on somewhat of a budget, there may be a veteran worth bringing back into the fold for the right price.

Free agent reliever David Robertson has enjoyed a long MLB career that has spanned over 15 years. He was a key part of the Rangers' 2024 bullpen and could be a valued asset next season if he would be willing to take a team-friendly offer.

The 39-year-old put together a solid year in Arlington. Across 72 innings, he earned a 3.00 ERA and struck out 99 batters in the process. He did slightly struggle in terms of BB% and Chase%, but he ranked in the 96th percentile in terms of K%.

The case for Rangers to re-sign this underrated reliever

Regardless of Birmingham native's latest numbers , his market may depend on his overall track record, and whether or not teams trust that he has more in the tank at his advanced age. Robertson has been in several playoff races and won the 2009 World Series with the New York Yankees.

It is also worth noting that he has played for teams that were not in the championship hunt. He spent time with the Chicago White Sox during some lean years, and did not reach the dance with the Rangers last season.

As far as Texas is concerned, the argument to bring him back is pretty straightforward. The Rangers need bullpen help badly, and they may not be willing to pay for top-end arms like Kirby Yates.

As a result, it might not be a bad idea to see if the veteran would be willing to come back on a team-friendly deal. For as badly as Robertson may want to play for a contender, he may prioritize stability instead.

In other words, he may be willing to stay with a team that has question marks just to stay put. While he did decline his option, this may have just been a strategy to see what he could net on the market.

The Rangers could try to re-sign Robertson for the right price. To do so, they would likely have to convince him they are already a contender, and that he does not have to go elsewhere to win another ring.