Recent reports reveal a potential decrease in the Luis Robert Jr. Mets trade cost as New York continues to explore options to upgrade its center field. The Chicago White Sox outfielder’s declining performance in 2025 may have brought the asking price closer to what the Mets are willing to offer.
Current Trade Rumors Surrounding Luis Robert Jr. and the Mets
Despite the Mets maintaining a platoon strategy in center field, speculation about acquiring Luis Robert Jr. hasn’t subsided, with talks stretching back to last year. Initially, the White Sox demanded a significant return in 2024, but Robert Jr.’s continued underwhelming output this season seems to have lowered the cost. His numbers this year highlight a .206 batting average, a .292 on-base percentage, a .344 slugging percentage, 10 home runs, 40 RBIs, 35 runs scored, and 25 stolen bases.
Insights from Mets insider Will Sammon of The Athletic indicate that
“Given the concerns over Robert’s health and production, coupled with the depth of the Mets’ farm system, New York shouldn’t have to part with their best prospects to acquire Robert.”
Moreover, Sammon noted that
“For the Mets, league sources speculatively suggested the cost for Robert may involve multiple prospects in the back end of the club’s top 20. Is that too much for the Mets’ taste?”
He also questioned,
“Whether they view Robert — and the cost to get him — as an upgrade over their current situation at the position remains unknown.”
The Feasibility of the Mets Acquiring Robert Jr. at Present
Just two years ago, Luis Robert Jr. was among baseball’s brightest young talents, boasting 38 home runs, 80 RBIs, and 20 stolen bases while playing a premium defensive role in center field. Since then, however, his performance has sharply declined, bringing his value into question this season. With his current struggles, the Mets face a difficult decision on whether Robert Jr. is worth pursuing as an upgrade.
There is an argument that moving Robert Jr. to a winning environment like New York, surrounded by a strong lineup, could help him regain his peak form. At his best, he would be a significant asset for the Mets’ second half and beyond. His current six-year, $50 million contract also frames the financial considerations involved.
On the other hand, skepticism remains as some believe that the present version of Robert Jr. might represent his true level, with 2023 viewed as an outlier. His batting average hovering barely above .200, even though he contributes speed and defense, makes a trade less enticing for the Mets. Paying him nearly $20 million over the next two years while surrendering prospects may not align with their risk tolerance.
Decision-Making at the Mets: Evaluating Risks and Potential Rewards
Mets President David Stearns has a reputation for strong talent assessment, and if he sees clear signs that Robert Jr. can succeed in New York, the team might pursue the trade aggressively. With the price reportedly at its lowest, the Mets could acquire a player who might play a major role in a postseason push. Ultimately, the key question is whether Stearns and the Mets’ front office believe those signs exist and justify the investment.