Latest Discouraging David Robertson Update Should Force Phillies to Aid Bullpen Via Trade
By Daniel Marcillo
The big bullpen signing for the Philadelphia Phillies this offseason was veteran David Robertson, but they have gotten nothing out of him.
It does not seem like he will rejoin the Phillies any time soon as well.
The Phillies received word that Robertson is recovering from his elbow injury but at a slower pace than expected. To make up for this prolonged absence, the Phillies must make a move at the deadline for some help in the 'pen.
The #Phillies are getting discouraged over the chances of veteran reliever David Robertson returning to action before September.
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) July 29, 2019
They acquired Jason Vargas for the starting rotation earlier on Monday, but Robertson has left a huge holes in the Phillies bullpen after his 6.2 inning cameo in April.
Relievers Mychal Givens, Alex Colome and Ken Giles can be affordable option that will not make the Phillies part ways with too many prospects. Felipe Vazquez and Shane Greene can also be had for a steeper price.
In regards to David Robertson (right elbow soreness) and his slow rehab, Klentak said, "With each passing day it's becoming less and less encouraging."
— Meghan Montemurro (@M_Montemurro) July 29, 2019
If they want to up the ante, they even go after Edwin Diaz, although the Mets did not package Diaz in the Vargas deal, which means that option is unlikely.
The Phillies do not have a deep bullpen and with multiple teams in contention for the second NL Wild Card spot, they cannot afford to be stagnant at the trade deadline.