Report: Mets Eyeing Interest In White Sox Star

Trade Talks and Prospect Costs

According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, the Mets have “checked in” on Robert, with the White Sox eyeing Mets pitching prospect Blade Tidwell as a potential piece in a trade package. “The White Sox are interested in Tidwell, but it’s unclear if the Mets would part with him,” Nightengale wrote Sunday. Tidwell, a 23-year-old right-hander, debuted in the majors this month but struggled, allowing six earned runs in 3.2 innings. Despite a 4.45 ERA in Triple-A this season, he remains a top 15 prospect in New York’s system, per MLB.com.

Talent Versus Risk

Robert, a 2023 All-Star and Silver Slugger winner, has given fits to teams with his five-tool potential. In 2023, he hit .264 with 38 home runs, 20 stolen bases, and a .857 OPS, finishing 12th in AL MVP voting. However, injuries and inconsistency have spoiled his past two seasons. In 2025, Robert has a triple slash of .186/.293/.326 with five home runs and 15 stolen bases in 37 games, a far cry from his prior production. His $15 million salary for 2025, with $20 million club options for 2026 and 2027, makes him an attractive, team-friendly asset for contenders, but his injury history raises concerns.

“The guy is certainly intriguing, but the White Sox are acting like he’s some big star center fielder and are asking for your top prospects,” an anonymous general manager told Nightengale in November. The White Sox, coming off a 41-121 season in 2024, are in a rebuild and seeking young, cost-controlled talent to bolster their farm system.

Potential Trade Package

A hypothetical trade package could see the Mets offering Tidwell, outfielder Ryan Clifford, and infielder Boston Baro, as proposed by Newsweek. Clifford, a power-hitting prospect, and Baro, valued for defensive versatility, could appeal to Chicago’s long-term vision. However, the Mets hesitate to deplete their farm system after losing center fielder Jose Siri to a fractured tibia, leaving Tyrone Taylor (.249/.295/.317) as their primary center fielder. Robert’s upside could fill that gap, especially alongside Juan Soto, with whom Robert trained this offseason.

ESPN’s Jeff Passan recently called Robert “the ultimate change-of-scenery candidate,” suggesting a move could unlock his 2023 form. Yet, some reports downplay the talks. “Teams are just not pitching to him, and you can see his frustration,” The Athletic’s Jim Bowden wrote, noting Robert’s slow start may dampen trade value.

The White Sox hope Robert’s recent “hot” streak, .241 with one homer so far in May, will boost his market before a “potential Memorial Day trade”, per Nightengale. Adding Robert could solidify their outfield for the Mets, but the cost and his health remain sticking points.