Houston Astros have reached out to David Robertson

According to a New York Post report by Ken Davidoff, the Houston Astros have reached out to representatives of free agent closer David Robertson, who is said to be seeking a deal similar to that of Philadelphia Phillies closer Jonathan Papelbon – which was for four years at $50 million.

"The Astros have communicated with Robertson’s agent Scott Leventhal to express their interest in the Yankees’ closer, an industry source said."

Replacing the legendary Mariano Rivera as closer of the New York Yankees was no easy task, but the right-hander stepped in and nailed down 39 saves in 2014, to go along with a 3.08 earned run average, 1.057 WHIP and an overpowering 13.4 strikeouts per nine – a career-high for the 29-year-old. Prior to last season, he served primarily as New York’s setup man.

The Yankees extended a qualifying offer to their closer at the conclusion of the season, meaning he will be tied to draft pick compensation for any team that signs him. That being said, the Astros’ first two picks are protected – given they have two of the first ten in next June’s draft after failing to sign their top overall pick last summer.

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According to Davidoff, Houston has been tied to several other relievers this offseason, including Sergio Romo of the San Francisco Giants and free agent left-hander Andrew Miller. However, signing a pitcher of Robertson’s caliber would signify a major shift from season’s past, as Houston has been in the throes of a rebuilding effort that has demoralized a large portion of its fan base.

"What is clear is Houston has expressed a willingness, through its actions this offseason, to elevate its payroll after fielding some bargain-basement squads, and it also desperately needs relief help if it is to climb back into relevance."

While the Yankees’ level of interest remains unclear at this point in time, adding Houston into the mix for Robertson’s services only further increases the likelihood that, at the very least, they will be challenged by other suitors in attempts to keep their closer in the Big Apple.