All articles tagged with #reliever
David Robertson announced his retirement after a 19-year MLB career highlighted by a World Series title, an All-Star appearance, a durable setup-to-closer arc, and a comeback from Tommy John surgery. He finished with 881 games pitched, 179 saves, 206 holds, and a 2.93 ERA in nearly 900 innings, with his final full season coming in 2024 with Texas before transitioning to life with family, farming, and his High Socks for Hope charity.
The Mets are signing veteran reliever Craig Kimbrel to a minor-league contract with a spring-training invitation, a $2.5 million base if he makes the roster. After a turbulent 2024 and a strong late-season showing with the Astros in 2025, Kimbrel would join a Mets bullpen led by Devin Williams and face a crowded depth chart, but offers a low-risk avenue for veteran experience and potential late-season impact.
The Boston Red Sox signed right-hander Tayron Guerrero to a minor-league contract with an invite to major-league camp. The 35-year-old, who pitched for the Chiba Lotte Marines in Japan in 2025 after a 2019 MLB stint, is known for a 99 mph fastball but uneven command. He will report to camp with a shot at a midseason call if he impresses in exhibition action and at Triple-A Worcester.
The Minnesota Twins brought back left-hander Taylor Rogers on a one-year, $2 million contract to shore up a bullpen that was decimated by last year’s trades. Rogers, a former Twin and 2021 All-Star closer, posted a 3.38 ERA with a 24% strikeout rate across 50 2/3 innings in 2025 but showed command issues and a decline in velocity. The move reintroduces a veteran arm to a bullpen with uncertainty and could pave the way for adding another reliever as the Twins rebuild their relief corps.
The Miami Marlins are signing reliever Pete Fairbanks to a one-year, $13 million contract, making him likely their closer for the upcoming season. Fairbanks, who previously played for the Rays, had a strong 2025 season with a 2.83 ERA and is known for his high-velocity fastball and effective strikeout ability. The deal includes incentives and a trade bonus, and it helps bolster the Marlins' bullpen, which has been in need of improvement. This move is part of the Marlins' broader offseason spending plans.
The New York Mets are close to signing reliever Luke Weaver to a two-year, $22 million deal, adding depth to their bullpen after a challenging 2025 season, with Weaver bringing a strong recent track record as a reliever and former starter.
The Dodgers are interested in acquiring Devin Williams, a top-tier reliever, as they seek to strengthen their bullpen, which has been inconsistent. Williams, a two-time All-Star with a strong track record, had a challenging season with the Yankees but remains a highly regarded pitcher with potential to return to form. The team is also optimistic about their current relievers and may not prioritize a high-profile signing this offseason.
Nick Burdi, a right-handed reliever with a history of injuries and multiple team stints, has elected free agency after being removed from the Red Sox roster due to injuries and not being re-added, with potential to return to MLB in 2026.
The Seattle Mariners claimed left-handed reliever José Castillo off waivers from the New York Mets and designated Joe Jacques for assignment, while also losing reliever Sauryn Lao to the Washington Nationals, as part of their roster adjustments.
The Red Sox have extended Aroldis Chapman through the 2026 season with an option for 2027, reflecting his outstanding 2025 performance where he posted a 1.04 ERA and struck out 38.7% of batters, marking one of his best seasons in recent years. The deal guarantees him $13.3 million, with a potential $26 million over two seasons if the 2027 option vests, based on innings pitched. This move secures a veteran presence in the bullpen for Boston as they contend in the postseason.
Félix Bautista, a key reliever for the Orioles, underwent shoulder surgery for a torn rotator cuff and labrum, leading to an estimated 12-month absence, impacting both his career trajectory and the Orioles' bullpen plans for the upcoming seasons.
Jhoan Duran was hit in the ankle by a line drive but x-rays showed no broken bones, though a bone bruise is possible, and he may need to miss some games. The team is relieved by the positive news and expects him to return soon, possibly after a brief injury list stint.
The Houston Astros called up reliever Jordan Weems from Triple-A Sugar Land to add depth to their bullpen following star closer Josh Hader's injury, with Weems having previously pitched for multiple MLB teams and showing solid performance in Triple-A.
The Phillies recalled veteran reliever David Robertson for his 2025 debut, aiming to bolster their bullpen as they prepare for the postseason, despite his age and recent shaky performances in Triple-A. Robertson, who signed a one-year, $16 million deal, is expected to bring experience and depth to the Phillies' bullpen during the final weeks of the season.
The Phillies signed veteran reliever Lou Trivino to a minor league deal, marking his third team in 2023 after recovering from Tommy John surgery and shoulder injuries. Trivino, with a career ERA of 3.86 and notable past success, is considered a depth addition as the Phillies have made significant roster upgrades, making a major league role unlikely for now.