Dave Dombrowski knows the Philadelphia Phillies need adjustments to gear up for the postseason, and one of the first moves is bolstering the bullpen to support the rotation. The arrival of David Robertson, a veteran familiar with the team, has sparked a flurry of questions.
Fans may feel reassured, as Robertson appears to be pitching like he’s back in top form. “Phillies President Dave Dombrowski says David Robertson is throwing like he has in the past with similar spin rate, throwing 88-90 mph,” the team president told NBC Sports Philadelphia.
It’s worth noting that Robertson hasn’t been with any MLB team in the 2025 season, meaning he hasn’t faced professional hitters recently. As a result, he won’t be able to pitch for the Phillies’ bullpen in July.
When will Robertson play in the majors with the Phillies?
The Phillies’ president was clear that Robertson will need time to get up to speed in Triple-A. “He says David will need a few weeks at Lehigh Valley to get ready,” though he didn’t specify an exact date for Robertson’s first game with the team.

HOUSTON, TEXAS – OCTOBER 28: David Robertson #30 of the Philadelphia Phillies celebrates after beating the Houston Astros 6-5 in 10 innings in Game One of the 2022 World Series at Minute Maid Park on October 28, 2022 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
In another report, Matt Gelb noted that Robertson is expected to be ready by the first week of August, which could align perfectly for a couple of home games and potentially prepare him for a lengthy road series.
“Phillies expect Dave Robertson to be ready by Aug. 5 — which is the earliest he can be activated. He consented to an optional assignment to Triple A, and he must spend 15 days there.”

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