Three-Time Phillies Reliever Announces Retirement With Emotional Farewell
Veteran reliever David Robertson has officially called time on an accomplished Major League Baseball career, announcing his retirement with a heartfelt message shared Friday on social media. The 39-year-old right-hander, who pitched for the Philadelphia Phillies on three separate occasions, revealed that the 2025 season would be his final year in professional baseball.
Robertson’s final MLB campaign came after he waited deep into last season before signing a short-term deal with Philadelphia. While his return to the Phillies provided a familiar setting, it ultimately marked the closing chapter of a career that spanned 17 seasons and included some of baseball’s biggest stages.
In his retirement message, Robertson expressed gratitude to everyone who played a role in his journey, from teammates and coaches to fans across the league. He reflected on the game’s impact on his life, calling baseball a lifelong passion that gave him far more than he ever imagined possible.
Originally from Birmingham, Alabama, Robertson enjoyed a lengthy and diverse career that took him across the league. He first rose to prominence with the New York Yankees, pitching there from 2008 to 2014 and again in later stints. Along the way, he also suited up for the Chicago White Sox, Tampa Bay Rays, Chicago Cubs, New York Mets, Miami Marlins, Texas Rangers, and, notably, the Phillies in 2019, 2022, and 2025.
One of the standout seasons of Robertson’s career came in 2011 with the Yankees. That year, he earned his lone All-Star selection while posting a remarkable 1.08 ERA, striking out 100 batters in 70 appearances, and finishing with a perfect 4–0 record. His dominance even earned him votes for both the Cy Young Award and the American League MVP.
Robertson was no stranger to postseason baseball, reaching the playoffs in 10 of his 17 seasons. He appeared in two World Series, winning a championship with the Yankees in 2009 and later helping the Phillies reach the Fall Classic in 2022. Over his career, he compiled a 68–46 record, a 2.93 ERA, 1.16 WHIP, 1,176 strikeouts, and 179 saves in 239 chances.
Former Yankees manager Joe Girardi, who worked closely with Robertson for years, praised the reliever’s poise and reliability, noting that no moment ever felt too big for him and that he trusted Robertson in the most critical situations.
Beyond his on-field success, Robertson also made a lasting impact off the field. Following devastating tornadoes in Alabama in 2011, he and his wife, Erin, founded the High Socks for Hope foundation, which supports disaster relief and community rebuilding efforts. Those close to the organization have consistently highlighted his generosity and commitment.
As Robertson steps away from the game, he does so with deep appreciation for every challenge and opportunity he encountered. His legacy includes championship success, postseason heroics, charitable work, and a rare three-time run with the Phillies—cementing his place as a respected and accomplished MLB veteran.
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