David Robertson, American baseball player

David Alan Robertson, affectionately known to baseball fans and teammates as "D-Rob," is a highly respected American professional baseball pitcher, born on April 9, 1985. Currently a valuable arm in the bullpen for the Chicago Cubs of Major League Baseball (MLB), Robertson boasts a distinguished career marked by consistency, clutch performances, and a journey through several prominent franchises. His career trajectory has seen him contribute significantly to the New York Yankees, Chicago White Sox, Philadelphia Phillies, and Tampa Bay Rays before joining the Cubs, establishing himself as one of the league's most durable and effective relief pitchers.

Early Career and Ascendance with the Yankees

Robertson honed his skills at the collegiate level, playing baseball for the storied Alabama Crimson Tide. His time in the competitive Southeastern Conference (SEC) prepared him for the rigors of professional baseball. Recognizing his potential, the New York Yankees selected him in the 17th round of the 2006 MLB draft. While a 17th-round pick might not immediately command headlines, Robertson's talent and unwavering work ethic quickly propelled him through the Yankees' minor league system.

He made his much-anticipated MLB debut with the Yankees in 2008, swiftly becoming a key component of their formidable bullpen. A significant highlight of his early career came in 2009 when he was a crucial member of the New York Yankees team that triumphed in the World Series, a pinnacle achievement for any baseball player. His excellence was further recognized in 2011 when he earned an MLB All-Star selection, a testament to his dominant performance as a setup man.

Perhaps one of the most significant moments in his Yankees tenure came in 2014. Following the retirement of the legendary Mariano Rivera, Robertson stepped into the monumental role of the team's closer. This was a challenging task, succeeding one of baseball's all-time greatest, but D-Rob handled the pressure with poise, proving his mettle in high-leverage situations and cementing his reputation as a reliable ninth-inning option.

A Well-Traveled and Respected Reliever

After his impactful run with the Yankees, Robertson entered free agency, signing with the Chicago White Sox after the 2014 season. During his time on the South Side of Chicago, he continued to be an effective closer, showcasing his consistent performance across different uniforms. His reliability was such that he was highly sought after, leading to a trade back to the New York Yankees in July 2017, underscoring his value to contending teams in need of a dominant bullpen presence.

Following the 2018 season, Robertson once again ventured into free agency, this time signing with the Philadelphia Phillies. His journey then led him to the Tampa Bay Rays, another testament to his enduring quality and ability to contribute to various playoff-contending squads. Now, as a member of the Chicago Cubs, Robertson continues to leverage his vast experience and finely tuned pitching arsenal to help his team, reinforcing his legacy as a durable and impactful veteran relief pitcher in Major League Baseball.

Frequently Asked Questions About David Robertson

What is David Robertson's nickname?

David Robertson is widely known by his nickname, "D-Rob."

Which MLB teams has David Robertson played for?

Throughout his distinguished MLB career, David Robertson has played for the New York Yankees, Chicago White Sox, Philadelphia Phillies, Tampa Bay Rays, and currently the Chicago Cubs.

Did David Robertson win a World Series?

Yes, David Robertson was a member of the New York Yankees team that won the World Series in 2009.

When was David Robertson named an MLB All-Star?

David Robertson earned an MLB All-Star selection in 2011.

What is David Robertson's primary role as a pitcher?

David Robertson is primarily a relief pitcher, often utilized in high-leverage situations. He notably served as the closer for the New York Yankees in 2014, taking over after Mariano Rivera's retirement.

What does a "closer" do in baseball?

In baseball, a closer is a specialized relief pitcher who typically pitches the final inning (usually the ninth) of a game when their team has a narrow lead, with the primary objective of securing the win. It is a high-pressure role requiring exceptional composure and command.