Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
New York Mets Trade Star Reliever Robertson to Miami Marlins
The New York Mets are officially in sell mode as they have shipped off one of their top relief options in David Robertson to the Miami Marlins.
The move was first announced by The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal and the intra-divisional move is slightly head-scratching.
The Marlins were not previously seen as a heavy buyer at this season's MLB trade deadline. Miami currently sits 10.5 games back of the National League East divisional lead, but just half a game back from a Wild Card spot.
Robertson holds a 2.05 ERA with a 1.000 WHIP in 44.0 innings pitched this season. He is on a one-year, $10 million contract.
Miami will reportedly send two minor leaguers back as the return package.
The Marlins are sending infielder Marco Vargas and catcher Ronald Hernandez to New York in exchange for Robertson's services. Vargas is the Marlins' no. 18 prospect while Hernandez checks in at 21 according to MLB.com.
It's a good haul for the Mets as they send a 38-year-old on an expiring contract to Miami.
The Marlins bullpen has posted a 4.04 ERA this season and is one of the weaker units in the league. Adding Robertson to the mix will bolster one of their most noticeable weaknesses on the roster.
With Robertson getting moved, the Mets have opened shop to begin their selloff ahead of the Aug. 1 trade deadline. Just as importantly, one of the most coveted relief pitchers on the market has now been taken off the board as contenders now much look elsewhere to reinforce their rosters.
