The veteran right-hander is calling it a career after an extended run in the majors.
David Robertson, who didn’t sign until midway through last season before joining the Philadelphia Phillies on a short-term contract, revealed Friday via social media that he is retiring from professional baseball. The 2025 campaign ultimately marked his final appearance in the big leagues.
Over parts of 17 MLB seasons, Robertson built a résumé packed with memorable moments. Internationally, he represented Team USA in the 2017 World Baseball Classic championship run and helped secure a silver medal at the 2021 Summer Olympics.
In his farewell note, Robertson thanked the many people who shaped his journey, writing that it was time to “hang up my spikes” after a career that gave him more than he ever imagined.
A native of Birmingham, Alabama, Robertson’s career included stops with the New York Yankees (2008–14, 2017–18), Chicago White Sox (2015–17), Phillies (2019, 2022, 2025), Tampa Bay Rays (2021), Chicago Cubs (2022), New York Mets (2023), Miami Marlins (2023), and Texas Rangers (2024). He had three separate stints in Philadelphia.
He earned an All-Star nod with the Yankees in 2011, going 4-0 with a career-best 1.08 ERA and 100 strikeouts across 70 appearances, a season that also drew Cy Young and MVP votes.
Robertson reached the postseason in 10 of his 17 seasons and appeared in two World Series, winning a title with New York in 2009 and later pitching in the Fall Classic with the Phillies in 2022. His career totals include a 68-46 record, 2.93 ERA, 1.16 WHIP, 1,176 strikeouts, 365 walks, and 179 saves in 239 chances.
Former Yankees manager Joe Girardi praised Robertson’s poise in big situations, saying he always trusted the reliever, even when setting up Mariano Rivera, because no stage ever seemed too large for him.
Off the field, Robertson has also been recognized for his philanthropy. After devastating tornadoes hit his hometown region in 2011, he and his wife, Erin, founded High Socks for Hope, a charitable organization focused on disaster relief and community support. Those involved with the foundation have highlighted his ongoing commitment and generosity.
Closing out his message, Robertson acknowledged how difficult it is to step away but said he does so with deep gratitude for the experiences, challenges, and memories the game provided.
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