How the Mets should use David Robertson out of the bullpen

The New York Mets signed David Robertson to a one-year deal worth $10 million to try and fortify their bullpen. Robertson is a reliever I thought the Mets should've acquired at the deadline, but unfortunately, the Phillies got him.

The 37-year-old was given a lot of money to be an integral part of the Mets bullpen. He won't close like he did some of the time for the Phillies or even like he did for the other New York team many years back, but he'll be a crucial arm.

The question of how the Mets should use him is an interesting one. We know how he won't be used, but let's look at his optimal role.

David Robertson should be the Seth Lugo replacement for the Mets

Edwin Diaz is the closer, obviously, no questions asked. After the season Adam Ottavino had in 2022, he should be the primary set-up man. If he struggles that can change, but that should be his role. If Diaz is unavailable on any day, they should use Ottavino in the highest leverage spots they'd use Diaz in. Brooks Raley is the primary lefty. Robertson's role is a little less defined.

In my opinion, the Mets should use Robertson in a similar way they used Seth Lugo. Obviously Lugo had the ability to go more than one inning, Robertson shouldn't be doing that. Lugo was used in the seventh inning most of the time, that's where I'd slot Robertson. Lugo was also used as a left-handed specialist of some sort. He isn't left-handed, but did a wonderful job against left-handed hitters.

Lugo held lefties to a .167 average and a .514 OPS, mainly due to his ridiculous curveball. Robertson also possesses an outstanding curve and held lefties to a .168 average with a .560 OPS last season. Robertson allowed just one home run in 133 plate appearances against lefty hitters.

Robertson should be the second lefty in this Mets bullpen. He can be relied upon against the cream of the crop in the National League. He should also be used as the primary seventh inning guy, who can pitch later if need be.