Report: Chicago White Sox trade Luis Robert Jr. to New York Mets

According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, the Chicago White Sox are trading Luis Robert Jr. to the New York Mets. Outfield help has been a major offseason priority for the Mets, looking for at least one player to pair with Juan Soto. Robert appears to be the guy, likely slotting into center field this season.

“BREAKING: The New York Mets in agreement on a trade to acquire center fielder Luis Robert Jr. from the Chicago White Sox, sources tell ESPN,” Passan said via X. “White Sox will receive two young players from the Mets.”

A few moments later, Passan went back to social media to reveal the exact young players heading to the South Side. Infielder Luisangel Acuña and right-handed pitcher Truman Pauley are now a part of the White Sox organization.

Robert has spent his entire professional baseball career in Chicago, signing with them as a free agent in 2017. Three years later came his MLB debut, playing in 56 games during the shortened season due to COVID-19. Ever since then, Robert has been regular for the White Sox — at least when healthy.

The most games ever played in one year by Robert is 145. Second best is 110, continually dealing with injuries. But when out there, the production has been proven at times. It’s easy to see why the Mets see potential in Robert, even if they need to unlock it.

Robert’s career batting average sits at .259 with 102 home runs and 298 RBIs over six seasons. However, the last two years have been a real struggle, at least compared to the peak performances of a 2023 campaign filled with 38 home runs and 80 RBIs. Robert has posted two OPS numbers well below .700. To compare him to other hitters across baseball, his OPS+ (where league average is 100) was 86 in 2024 and 85 in ’25.

As for the financials, money was always going to be a huge part of the equation. Turns out, the Mets will be assuming the entire contract moving forward. MLB Network’s Jon Heyman reported New York will pay Robert $20 million for the upcoming season. He will be owed $2 million if bought out of the $20 million 2027 option.

“Mets will pay the $22M guarantee left,” Heyman said via X. “$20M 2026 salary plus $2M buyout on $20M 2027 option.”

The Mets needed a little more right-handed power in the lineup, even after signing Bo Bichette. Soto and Francisco Lindor will continue to be staples in the top half, looking to continue All-Star form. Robert could wind up playing an important role for this team, though, if some of the magic can be recreated.