Former Phillies Reliever David Robertson Retires After 17 Seasons

The 40-year-old pitcher announced his retirement after three separate stints with the Philadelphia Phillies.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 6:15pm

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After 17 seasons in Major League Baseball, former Philadelphia Phillies relief pitcher David Robertson has announced his retirement. The 40-year-old Robertson had three separate stints with the Phillies, most recently in 2025 when he posted a 4.08 ERA and two saves in 16.2 innings. Over his career, Robertson was 68-46 with a 2.93 ERA and 206 saves in 881 appearances for the Yankees, White Sox, Rays, Mets, Cubs, Marlins, and Rangers, in addition to the Phillies.

Why it matters

Robertson was a reliable and experienced relief pitcher who helped the Phillies reach the World Series in 2022. His retirement marks the end of an era for the veteran right-hander, who was a key part of several playoff teams throughout his career.

The details

Robertson signed a one-year, $16 million contract with the Phillies in July 2025 and posted a 4.08 ERA, 1.47 WHIP, and 22 strikeouts in 16.2 innings with two saves in three chances. Overall with the Phillies, he was 3-4 with a 3.59 ERA, 1.51 WHIP, and eight saves in 49 games across three separate stints in 2019, 2022, and 2025.

  • Robertson announced his retirement on January 30, 2026.
  • He last pitched for the Phillies in the 2025 season.

The players

David Robertson

A 40-year-old relief pitcher who spent 17 seasons in Major League Baseball, including three separate stints with the Philadelphia Phillies.

Philadelphia Phillies

The professional baseball team based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania that Robertson played for on three different occasions during his career.

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What they’re saying

“I've decided it's time for me to hang up my spikes and retire from the game I've loved for as long as I can remember.”

— David Robertson (Instagram)

“Saying goodbye isn't easy, but I do so with deep gratitude for every opportunity, challenge, and memory. I'll forever be thankful for the game and for everyone who made this journey extraordinary.”

— David Robertson (Instagram)

The takeaway

Robertson's retirement marks the end of a successful 17-year MLB career, during which he established himself as a reliable and experienced relief pitcher. His contributions to the Phillies, including helping the team reach the World Series in 2022, will be remembered by the team's fans.