The White Sox continue to draw trade interest in Luis Robert Jr., even as the outfielder endures a challenging second consecutive season. According to New York Post’s Jon Heyman, eight MLB teams have reached out regarding a potential trade involving Robert, though the identities of these teams remain undisclosed. This sustained curiosity highlights the lingering hope around Robert’s ability to rebound despite ongoing performance issues.
Underwhelming First Half Offensive Numbers
Robert’s first half of the season ended with a .190/.275/.325 slash line across 306 plate appearances, including a 1-for-4 showing in Chicago’s recent 6-5 loss to the Guardians. His strikeout and walk rates rank near the lowest in the league. Although his expected weighted on-base average (xwOBA) of .315 exceeds his actual wOBA of .264, even this projected number falls below par. Nonetheless, Robert shows some promising splits, boasting a .913 OPS against left-handed pitchers compared to a .498 OPS versus right-handers. Additionally, his speed remains evident with 22 stolen bases out of 28 attempts, and he maintains above-average barrel and walk rates.
Performance Decline Following Injury Issues
Since the start of 2024, spanning this season and a previous injury-limited campaign, Robert’s on-base plus slugging metrics have faltered, producing only a .210/.277/.356 line over 727 plate appearances, equating to a 76 weighted runs created plus (wRC+). While his center field defense has waned since his 2023 campaign—a season many considered a career peak—his fielding remains serviceable, potentially adding some appeal for interested clubs.
Missed Opportunity to Trade After 2023 All-Star Season
Retrospectively, the ideal moment for the White Sox to move Robert was right after his 2023 All-Star year when his value was at its highest. The team chose to retain him, hoping his performance would improve with health, thereby enhancing trade prospects. However, this approach has backfired as his production has declined significantly. Although multiple teams continue to express interest, the White Sox likely cannot expect the same return they once envisioned, a setback for a rebuilding team aiming to add quality pieces.
Contract Details Complicate Robert’s Trade Appeal
Robert is entering the final guaranteed season of a six-year, $50 million extension signed before the 2020 campaign. The White Sox hold club options for 2026 and 2027, each worth $20 million with a $2 million buyout clause, initially seen as valuable trade leverage. For 2025, Robert’s remaining $6.25 million salary combined with a $2 million buyout places an $8.25 million financial burden on any potential acquiring team, which may deter suitors given his current struggles. Reports indicate the White Sox are open to including financial incentives to facilitate trades involving Robert and Andrew Benintendi, though considerations around Benintendi’s larger remaining contract are likely more urgent.
Potential Role as a Complementary Player Offers Hope
Heyman points out that some clubs believe Robert could thrive as a complementary player, a notion aligned with his striking offensive splits between left- and right-handed pitching. His ability to excel against lefties offers a glimmer of optimism that a change in environment might help restore his overall form. At nearly 28 years old, Robert should be in his athletic prime, and his impressive All-Star campaign from 2023 continues to influence perceptions among rival front offices.
Recent Links to Multiple MLB Contenders
Teams such as the Dodgers, Giants, Reds, Mariners, and Mets have been connected to Robert’s trade discussions in recent seasons, with the Mets reportedly expressing interest as recently as May. It appears that nearly every contender with an outfield need could inquire with White Sox general manager Chris Getz regarding Robert’s availability. A strong performance stretch from Robert after the All-Star break might even trigger a competitive bidding process.