The New York Mets have been linked to outfielder Juan Soto in free agency. However, president of baseball operations David Stearns also needs a primary center fielder for 2025. Could he try and swing a deal with the Chicago White Sox for outfielder Luis Robert Jr.?
Robert was limited to 100 games in 2024, which led to a .224/.278/.379 line with 14 home runs, 19 doubles, 35 RBI, 47 runs scored and 23 steals. He comes with significant injury risk, appearing in more than 100 games just once since 2021. However, the upside that comes with a fully healthy Robert is tantalizing, as evidenced by his 2023 performance.
Two years ago, the right-handed slugger slashed .264/.315/.542 with 38 home runs, 36 doubles, 80 RBI, 90 runs scored and 20 steals in 145 games. Robert was named an All-Star for the first time while also taking home his first Silver Slugger Award and placing 12th in American League MVP Award voting. The 27-year-old is also solid defensively – he won a Gold Glove Award as a rookie in 2020.
What could it take for the Mets to get a deal done for Robert if he's on their radar? Bleacher Report's Zachary D. Rymer shared the following proposal:
- Mets receive: outfielder Luis Robert Jr.
- White Sox receive: infielder Ronny Mauricio and right-handed pitcher Blade Tidwell
Robert's contract situation would make it an interesting opportunity for the Mets. He's entering the final season of a six-year, $50 million deal. His agreement also includes a pair of club options for 2026 and 2027, both valued at $20 million.
So, while he can be under contract for the next three seasons, the Mets wouldn't be guaranteed to be on the hook for more than one year at any time.
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