Mets Deal Reliever David Robertson to Marlins

The former Alabama pitcher was sent to Miami as the trade deadline talks heat up before Tuesday's deadline.

Less than a week before the Major League Baseball trade deadline, David Robertson is on the move. 

As soon as the New York Mets completed a rain-delayed 2-1 victory over Washington on Thursday night, news broke that the former Alabama Crimson Tide pitcher had been traded to the Florida Marlins. 

The deal was for two minor-league players. The New York Post reported it was for rookie ball players Marco Vargas and Ronald Hernandez.

Robertson was one of the top rental relievers on the trade market for the second straight summer. The 38-year-old had stepped in and been the closer for the struggling Mets this season, and was 4-2 with 14 saves and a 2.05 ERA. 

MLB.com's Mark Feinsand had recently said about Robertson:

"It remains to be seen whether the Mets decide to become big-time sellers (think Max Scherzer and/or Justin Verlander), but the 38-year-old Robertson is headed back to free agency after signing a one-year, $10 million deal with New York last offseason," Feinsand. "Robertson has excelled in both setup and closing roles and has a wealth of postseason experience, making him a fit for virtually every contender out there. Potential fits: Dodgers, (Philadelphia Phillies), (Tampa Bay Rays)."

Miami is 55-48 this season and a strong contender for a wild-card playoff spot. The Marlins were thought to be looking more for hitting help, especially at shortstop and in the outfield, and have a strong stockpile of pitchers in their farm system. 

Vargas is an infielder and Hernandez an outfielder, so they may not be done. The trading deadline is Tuesday.

SEE ALSO: Former Alabama Receiver Cleared for Action After Battling Leukemia