The New York Mets may be ready to pounce on an active Chicago White Sox team, with MLB insider Bob Nightengale reporting that New York is engaged in trade talks surrounding outfielder Luis Robert Jr.
“Next up for the Chicago White Sox after the Munetaka Murakami signing: They still would like to move CF Luis Robert for pitching depth and are engaged in talks with the New York Mets and Cincinnati Reds,” Nightingale posted to X.
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The report comes just after the White Sox brought in Japanese infielder Munetaka Murakami on a two-year, $34 million deal early on Sunday. Chicago appears to be an active team this offseason, aiming to build on its 60-win 2025 campaign. As a part of this effort, they no longer believe Robert Jr. helps them get there.
Luckily for the Mets, Robert Jr. could be a great fit for what’s missing in the outfield at Citi Field. At 28 years old, Robert has had an up-and-down career in the MLB, showcasing his five-tool talent at times and being completely underwhelming at others.
In 2025, Robert Jr. had his second consecutive below-league-average season at the plate. He hit 14 home runs and drove in 53 runs in 110 games, posting a slash line of .223/.297/.364 with an OPS+ of 85.
The former All-Star still provided the White Sox with value on the bases and on defense. His 90th percentile sprint speed aided Robert Jr. to 33 stolen bases last season, putting him in the 76th percentile in baserunning value. He also tallied seven outs above average, putting him among baseball’s best centerfielders.
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New York has a need to bolster its outfield this winter, with Juan Soto and Tyrone Taylor currently as the only ones with at least 100 games logged in the outfield last season. Soto was great in 2025, but Taylor failed to provide much value at the plate for the Mets. While Taylor’s defensive abilities are even better than Robert Jr.’s, Chicago’s center fielder has much more upside at the plate.
Taking a chance on a Robert Jr. could pay big dividends for New York if they choose to pull the trigger on a deal. The Mets would have control over him for two seasons, as his contract includes a $20 million team option for the 2027 season.
The White Sox are reportedly seeking pitching depth in return, calling into question the Mets’ ability to match another team in that area as they try to retool their own pitching staff. Still, acquiring Robert Jr. could provide the Mets with a much higher upside than in 2025 as they look to return to the postseason.