Fansided

Five closers still on the trade market

By Thomas Conroy

May 3, 2015; Boston, MA, USA; New York Yankees relief pitcher Andrew Miller (48) reacts with catcher Brian McCann (34) after defeating the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
May 3, 2015; Boston, MA, USA; New York Yankees relief pitcher Andrew Miller (48) reacts with catcher Brian McCann (34) after defeating the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jun 20, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago White Sox relief pitcher David Robertson (30) delivers a pitch during the ninth inning against the Texas Rangers at U.S Cellular Field. Chicago won 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 20, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago White Sox relief pitcher David Robertson (30) delivers a pitch during the ninth inning against the Texas Rangers at U.S Cellular Field. Chicago won 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports /

2) David Robertson – Chicago White Sox

No Chicago White Sox fan should be surprised that the team is gauging interest in David Robertson because several first-rate closers are available on the trade market.

Robertson didn’t expect to be in this situation, especially after signing a huge free agent contract last winter. The hope was to have him leading the Sox to a pennant-winning season, but the reality is the team has too many holes on the roster than need to be filled. White Sox GM Rick Hahn needs to exhaust every avenue available to resolve the team’s pressing issues.

A realistic approach for the Sox is making young pitching stud Nate Jones their full-time closer and trading Robertson to gain salary relief and prospects that are ready to play in the majors this coming season. Contending teams have been connected to him, as he has the experience to work any role in the bullpen. Robertson was a valued eighth inning setup specialist for Mariano Rivera during their time together with the New York Yankees.

Many in Chicago believe the White Sox are crazy to consider trading Robertson because he’s one of the lone players on the roster with playoff experience. Others believe that his value may never be higher on the trade market, so it’s wise to make a move immediately.

The price to acquire him will be exorbitant, with the White Sox expecting top major league prospects in return for Robertson. Any potential suitor will never question his character off the field; Robertson becomes a leading member of the community the minute he arrives in town. One of the teams that make sense to acquire him is the Dodgers, who are looking for a relief pitcher that has the ability and temperament to play for a big-market team.

Next: Andrew Miller

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