Phillies Nab Closer From Cubs

The Philadelphia Phillies are addressing all of their urgent needs as the deadline approaches. First, a deal to acquire a center fielder, and now they've plugged their big hole in the bullpen. 

The Philadelphia Phillies have acquired right-hander David Robertson from the Chicago Cubs, sources tell ESPN.

— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) August 2, 2022

David Robertson heads to the Phillies in return for 6-foot-6 prospect, RHP Ben Brown. 

The 37-year-old Robertson has had a comeback season for the Chicago Cubs, posting 14 saves with a 2.23 ERA, a 1.04 WHIP and 11.4 K/9. In his 14-year career, he's accumulated 151 saves and a 2.89 ERA. But after a couple of years of struggles, he was forced to prove himself again this season, and the Cubs gave him that opportunity. 

The Phillies have had a leaky bullpen for what seems like years now, and have tried all sorts of solutions, but Robertson will finally provide a veteran, proven arm for the high-leverage, late-inning situations. 

For the Cubs, the 6'6" prospect Brown brings some serious heat.

The pitching prospect the Cubs just acquired from the Phillies for David Robertson, Ben Brown, has a 35.4% strikeout rate and 7.7% walk rate in High-A. 🔥

— Michael Cerami (@Michael_Cerami) August 2, 2022

Philly is currently hanging on to the 3rd and final Wild Card spot in the National League, while they await Bryce Harper's return, expected to be sometime in the second half of August.

Photo: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports