White Sox Trade Rumors: Yankees’ David Robertson to Join Nemesis for $46 Million

Closer David Robertson has reportedly signed with the Chicago White Sox during the Winter Meetings in San Diego, CA. Both parties agreed to a four-year contract worth $46 million, sources reported.

According to sources, the Yankees have been trying to re-sign Robertson to a three-year, or even a four-year, contract. However, the Bronx Bombers were not prepared to offer Robertson as much money to stay.

Robertson's numbers as a closer for the New York Yankees this past season were impressive, saving 39 games in 44 chances. He struck out 13.4 batters in nine innings with a strikeout percentage of 37.1. His career numbers are 12.0 strikeouts/9 and 32.0 strikeout percentage.

By adding Robertson to their bullpen, the White Sox's overall relief strikeout numbers should improve significantly. The team's relievers finished the 2014 season striking out 7.2 batters/9 with an 18.2-strikeout percentage. The average numbers for the bullpen in the MLB during that season were 8.5 K/9 and 22.4 K percentage.

The White Sox acquired lefty Zach Duke several weeks ago. Duke, who finished 2014 with 11.4 K/9 and 31.3 K%, will most likely be the set up man. The team is also in the process of trading for pitcher Jeff Samardzija from the Oakland Athletics, Jon Heyman with CBSSports.com wrote.

"I think we can contend next year,'' the vice president of baseball operations Ken Williams told USA TODAY Sports. "We already have the young cornerstone type players. We know more what they're capable of than the rest of the league. If we can add a couple more pieces, I really like this team. Our level of optimism going into next year is sky-high.''

Robertson was the top closer available on the free agent market this season.