David Robertson wants major money in free agency, according to a report.
Robertson turned down a one-year, $15.3 million qualifying offer from the Yankees earlier in the week, meaning the Yankees will receive a draft pick as compensation if the closer signs with another team. The $15.3 million for one season would have set a record for a reliever, but it sounds like Robertson has his eyes set on something even greater.
ESPN New York reports that Robertson is seeking “Papelbon money,” which is a reference to Jonathan Papelbon, who signed a four-year, $50 million deal with the Phillies in 2011. That deal can become five years for $63 million if Papelbon’s option for 2016 vests, which it likely will next year.
Robertson, 29, has been with the Yankees his entire seven-year career. He posted 4-5 record with 39 saves and a 3.08 ERA last season. His 13.45 strikeouts per nine innings rate was extremely strong, which is a sign to the Yankees that he has the kind of stuff to consistently make hitters miss. That stat is generally a strong predictor of future success for a reliever.
Despite Robertson being an effective reliever throughout his Yankees career, the team is said to be reluctant to pay Papelbon-type money to him and would not match if he received such an offer.
