The New York Mets might not be in the initial stages of a full fire sale ahead of Tuesday’s MLB trade deadline. But they have moved one key component.
According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, New York has shipped off closer David Robertson to the division-rival Miami Marlins. The return is said to be two minor league position players.
Robertson, 38, took over the Mets’ closer role once Edwin Diaz suffered a season-ending injury during the World Baseball Classic. He’s performed extremely well, boasting a 2.05 ERA and 1.00 WHIP while saving 14 games in 40 appearances.
With the Mets 7.5 games out of the final wild card spot in the National League, it makes sense to trade off impending free agents. Playing under a one-year, $10 million contract, that’s exactly what Robertson is.
It was noted just recently that there’s a growing belief within the MLB world that ace pitcher Justin Verlander could also be moved by the New York Mets ahead of Tuesday’s deadline. We wouldn’t read too much into the team trading Robertson as it relates to a potential roster shake up. It’s more about getting a return for someone who is slated to become a free agent.
Related: Updated MLB trade tracker with grades
New York Mets return in David Roberton trade
According to multiple media reports, New York has picked up 18-year-old infielder Marco Vargas and 19-year-old catcher Ronald Hernandez for Robertson. Vargas is currently playing rookie league ball and ranks 18th among Marlins prospects. Hernandez ranks 21st and is also currently at rookie ball.
Getting two top-25 prospects for an impending free agent can’t be seen as a bad thing for New York.
As for the Marlins, they are currently just a half game out of the final wild card spot in the National League with a 55-48 record. It wouldn’t be a surprise if Robertson took over for A.J. Puk (4.45 ERA, 1.21 WHIP) as Miami’s closer moving forward on the season.