Overview
- MLB insider Francys Romero reports the Mets, Padres and Pirates have asked about trading for Luis Robert Jr., a development echoed by multiple outlets.
- The White Sox picked up Robert’s $20 million club option for 2026, and GM Chris Getz has indicated he is penciled in as the starting center fielder next season.
- Robert hit .223/.297/.364 over 110 games in 2025, rebounded to a 124 wRC+ after a midseason return, then suffered a second left hamstring strain that ended his year in late August.
- For New York, a trade could address a clear center-field need after subpar production in 2025, and the acquisition cost could be workable for a high-payroll team.
- San Diego’s fit is complicated by Jackson Merrill’s hold on center and payroll constraints that likely require Chicago to cover a significant salary portion, while Pittsburgh’s interest comes amid broader spending signals but most analyses still forecast Robert remaining with the White Sox this winter.