David Robertson Retires After 17 MLB Seasons

David Robertson, a veteran relief pitcher who spent 17 seasons in Major League Baseball, announced his retirement on Friday via a social media post, closing the book on a career highlighted by a World Series championship and consistent performance across multiple teams.

The 40-year-old right-hander, born in Birmingham, Alabama, began his professional journey when the New York Yankees selected him in the 17th round of the 2006 draft. He made his MLB debut with the Yankees in 2008 and quickly became a key member of their bullpen. In his second season, Robertson contributed to the team's 2009 World Series victory, apprenticing under legendary closer Mariano Rivera. He remained with the Yankees through 2014, earning an All-Star selection in 2011 after posting a 1.07 ERA in 70 appearances. During that span, he also notched a career-high 39 saves in 2014, the first of three consecutive seasons with at least 30 saves.

Robertson left New York as a free agent and signed with the Chicago White Sox, where he pitched from 2015 to 2017 and took on closing duties at times. His career then took him to a variety of clubs, reflecting his reputation as a durable and sought-after reliever. He...