A new MLB rumor may clear an even wider path for the New York Mets to upgrade centerfield with one-time All-Star Luis Robert Jr.
Despite one of the best teams in MLB over the first half, the Mets have spots they would like to upgrade before July’s trade deadline. One of them is centerfield, where they have gotten average at best play from Jose Siri and Tyrone Taylor. It is why they have reportedly looked at a potential trade for Luis Robert. However, his contract is part of why getting a deal done is difficult.
Related: New York Mets linked to pair of All-Star-level players to boost DH before MLB trade deadline
The player who seemed like he was turning into a perennial All-Star in 2023 is having another awful season. So there is a risk in a deal for New York. In terms of prospect assets for a player who may never return to his previous heights. Or the cost of exercising the club options the next two years to see if they can get him back to All-Star form.
However, there may be a new incentive to make a trade in the coming weeks. “According to sources briefed on the team’s plans, the White Sox are open to including cash in trades,” The Athletic reports.
Luis Robert Jr. stats (2025): .191 AVG, .272 OBP, .314 SLG, .585 OPS, 7 HR, 30 RBI, 26 R, 22 SB
Robert Jr. is owed $20 million per season in 2026 and ’27. If Chicago were open to picking up half of that, the Mets might be willing to give up solid prospects. He remains a gifted defender at a premium position, a talented base stealer, and still has immense upside at the plate.
Furthermore, New York has done a good job of strengthening their minor league system in recent years. The Athletic also revealed that the club can trade from an area of strength. Which is their strong pitching depth in the minors.
“Look for the Mets to again leverage their pitching-rich farm system. After trading multiple minor-league pitchers last year, the Mets possess enough attractive arms in their farm system to supplement their roster without dealing their top pitching prospects,” rival evaluators familiar with the organization told the outlet.
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