Last month reports surfaced that suggested the Houston Astros were in the market for a closer and were willing to pay big bucks for one. David Robertson is a closer who wants big bucks. Who will pay him?
Robertson is the top free agent closer this offseason after just one year in the role with the New York Yankees. In 2014, the right-hander converted 39 of 44 save opportunities and amassed a 3.08 ERA, 1.06 WHIP and 96 strikeouts in 64 1/3 innings. Shortly after rejecting the Yankees' qualifying offer, Robertson made it known he wanted "Jonathan Papelbon" money.
According to Jon Heyman of CBS Sports, Robertson has a three-year, $39 million offer on the table, but much outside interest suggests he will eventually receive a four-year offer and get closer to the $50 million Papelbon received when he signed with the Phillies before the 2012 season. The Yankees have made Robertson a priority, but GM Brian Cashman doesn't seem willing to offer him that kind of money with a number of other holes on the roster.
Although it's unknown what team made the three-year offer to Robertson, it wouldn't be surprising if it were the Astros. The team made it known last month they were interested in the right-hander and it's no wonder why: Houston's bullpen had the worst ERA (4.80) and the most blown saves (26) in the MLB. Robertson's experience as setup man behind Mariano Rivera coupled with his instant success as a closer in 2014 might have the Astros willing to pay him the money he wants.
But the Astros are perhaps a bit of time away from contending for a playoff spot and it wouldn't be shocking if Robertson wanted to join an established club. With the Yankees and Blue Jays as other known teams looking at Robertson, do the Astros have competition?
Heyman notes the Blue Jays have other priorities at second base and in the outfield, but they haven't yet ruled out acquiring Robertson. The Yankees have kept in contact with the closer's agent at the general manager meetings and still view the void at the closer position an "issue," which means they're probably trying to work something out that will be friendly to Robertson as well as the organization. After all, the closer said he would like to remain a Yankee.
Whatever the case, the Astros are prepared in their endeavors to acquire a closer and have also spoken with Sergio Romo and Andrew Miller. In fact, Heyman also mentioned Romo could be the team's top backup plan since Robertson and Miller are garnering much interest across the league.
It could take a little while before Robertson signs, but the MLB Winter Meetings could expedite the process next week.
