Well, you know what they say about July in baseball – it’s when contenders separate themselves from pretenders. With the MLB trade deadline approaching on July 31, both the Yankees and Mets are scrambling to shore up their bullpens, and they’ve got their eyes on the same prize. The crosstown rivals are circling a veteran reliever like sharks, each desperately needing that reliable arm to navigate the postseason waters ahead.

Want to guess why a 40-year-old reliever is suddenly the hottest commodity in free agency? Well, David Robertson represents the perfect storm of availability, experience, and cost-effectiveness. Unlike trade targets that require surrendering prospects and taking on hefty contracts, Robertson is sitting right there as a free agent, ready to sign without any organizational bleeding. The former All-Star has been conducting private workouts, essentially auditioning for teams that initially balked at his asking price during the offseason.

According to The Athletic, both the Mets and Yankees are among several teams evaluating Robertson, with multiple clubs expected to attend his throwing sessions this week. The Yankees need him because their bullpen has been inconsistent in high-leverage situations, while the Mets are looking to solidify their relief corps for a potential playoff push. Both New York clubs are reportedly expressing strong interest in Robertson’s comeback workouts this month. And it makes sense – Robertson has suited up for both organizations before, bringing that invaluable familiarity with the pressures of New York baseball.

Here’s where Robertson becomes a game-changer for whichever team lands him. Despite turning 40 in April, his recent track record screams effectiveness – he posted a 3.00 ERA across 72 innings for Texas last season, striking out 99 batters while walking just 27. His three-year run from 2022 to 2024 featured a stellar 2.82 ERA over 189 appearances, with his signature cutter still humming in the 93-mph range.

Speaking of October baseball, both New York teams might need Robertson’s services sooner than expected. According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, Robertson had been seeking a $10M annual salary in free agency over the winter after earning $11.5M with the Rangers last year. Meanwhile, the Phillies have also shown interest in a potential reunion, especially with their ongoing search for bullpen help.

The seasoned veteran brings that clutch gene and postseason experience that money can’t buy, having navigated nine different organizations throughout his career. For teams staring down the barrel of October baseball, Robertson isn’t just another arm – he’s the missing piece that could define their championship aspirations. But first, let’s examine why the Mets’ situation has become particularly urgent.

Mets target Marlins’ ace before Yankees can strike at trade deadline

The New York Mets find themselves in a precarious position as the trade deadline approaches, with their starting rotation under siege from a mounting injury crisis. While their pitching staff currently boasts the fourth-best ERA in baseball at 3.38, the cracks are beginning to show beneath the surface.

The carnage has been swift and merciless: Tylor Megill sits on the injured list, while Griffin Canning’s season has been cut short entirely. With Sean Manaea’s return to the rotation still uncertain after the break and Frankie Montas posting a concerning 5.03 ERA through his first four starts, the Mets’ depth is being tested like never before.

But salvation may come from an unexpected source—their own division. The Miami Marlins’ Edward Cabrera has emerged as a compelling trade target, posting a solid 3.61 ERA across 16 starts this season. The 27-year-old right-hander is on pace to set a new career high for starts, and crucially, he wouldn’t be a rental acquisition. With team control extending through 2029, Cabrera represents both immediate relief and long-term stability.

Further, the Mets represent an ideal landing spot for Cabrera. If Montas continues to struggle or Megill’s return remains delayed, the Mets may need to make an aggressive move to maintain their competitive edge. Trading within the division carries risks, but sometimes the best solutions hide in plain sight.