Yankees Potential Trade Target: Luis Robert Jr.
Luis Robert Jr., a coveted player, will attract many suitors.
The Chicago White Sox are struggling both on the field and in management. With a 26-66 record, they are the only team in baseball without at least 30 wins, potentially facing their worst season in franchise history. Ironically, they possess some of the most sought-after talents in the trade market, including pitchers Garrett Crochet and Erick Fedde. The standout prize among position players is center fielder Luis Robert Jr., who turns 27 in August and is under a favorable team contract.
Robert has a 119 wRC+, close to his career average of 124. After a two-month IL stint due to a hip flexor strain, his plate discipline has suffered in the 36 games since his return, with a 33% strikeout rate. However, he has shown improvement recently, reducing his K-rate to a more acceptable 26% over the past two weeks, combined with his power and speed.
For the Yankees, Robert is an excellent fit. While not quite the MVP his agent touted him to be, he’s a consistent All-Star who would strengthen the lineup, particularly following Juan Soto and Aaron Judge. Although Robert doesn’t have the on-base percentage to bat ahead of them, his presence after a Soto walk or Judge single would be formidable.
The challenges are fitting him into the lineup and the cost of acquiring him. Robert is a natural center fielder, and moving Judge from center would bench Alex Verdugo and necessitate a role for Trent Grisham. Additionally, Robert’s contract extends through 2025, with $20 million club options for 2026 and 2027, making him a valuable asset. The Yankees would need to offer a significant prospect package to acquire him.
The White Sox seem to be heading for a complete rebuild, likely winning fewer games than projected. Their best chance for improvement lies in getting substantial returns for their current talent. They don’t have to trade Robert this year unless they receive an exceptional offer.
Is it worth it for the Yankees to deplete their farm system for 12-15 wins at $17 million per year until 2027? Probably, but whether they can assemble a competitive package remains uncertain.
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