The Chicago White Sox appear ready to finally move on from star center fielder Luis Robert Jr., with trade talks intensifying in the wake of their surprise signing of Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami to a two-year, $34 million deal. The White Sox, still in a multi-year rebuild after three consecutive 100-loss seasons, are reportedly seeking young pitching in return for Robert, and several National League teams have emerged as serious contenders.
Trade Rumors Heat Up Surrounding Luis Robert Jr.
Robert, 28, remains one of the most intriguing talents in baseball when healthy. His breakout 2023 All-Star season, where he hit .264 with 38 home runs, 80 RBI, and a 129 wRC+, cemented his status as a five-tool player with elite power, speed (career high 33 stolen bases in 2025), and defense (Gold Glove caliber in center). However, injuries have plagued him since, limiting him to 100 games in 2024 and 110 in 2025, during which he posted career-low offensive numbers (.223/.297/.364, 14 HRs, .661 OPS).
The White Sox exercised his $20 million club option for 2026 (with a matching option for 2027 and $2 million buyouts) in November, signaling they still see value in his upside. But Murakami’s arrival at first base/DH has shifted priorities, freeing up the outfield and creating urgency to trade Robert for controllable arms to bolster their young rotation.
Reports indicate Chicago is willing to eat a portion of Robert’s 2026 salary, potentially up to half ($10 million), to facilitate a deal, making him more attractive despite his injury history and recent production dip.
Several Teams Interested
The most prominent discussions involve the New York Mets and Cincinnati Reds, with both clubs actively engaged as of late.
The Mets have long been linked to Robert, inquiring about him at last year’s trade deadline and showing renewed interest post-Murakami signing. With outfield holes after trading Jeff McNeil and losing Brandon Nimmo, Robert could provide a defensive upgrade in center and some right-handed pop. The Mets have a pitching surplus, including young arms like Jonah Tong, Brandon Sproat, Nolan McLean, and veterans like David Peterson or Kodai Senga, that aligns with Chicago’s needs. However, skepticism remains about Robert’s health and whether David Stearns would part with top prospects for a risky asset.
The Reds have re-engaged after previous offseason and deadline talks stalled. Coming off a surprising NL Wild Card appearance under manager Terry Francona, they need offensive firepower to complement Elly De La Cruz and a deep rotation. Robert would upgrade center field (allowing TJ Friedl to move to a corner), provide speed and power upside, and fit their budget-conscious approach. Cincinnati’s young pitching depth (Chase Petty, Julian Aguiar, Brandon Williamson) makes them a strong fit, though payroll constraints could limit the package.
Reds trade buzz heating up! Gordon Wittenmyer dropping hints on what a Luis Robert Jr. deal could look like.#Reds pic.twitter.com/DDehMo5inf
— Chatterbox Sports (@CBoxSports) December 24, 2025
Other teams like the Philadelphia Phillies, who explored Robert earlier in the winter but prioritized relievers. Also Pittsburgh Pirates have shown peripheral interest, but the Mets and Reds still appear to be the frontrunners.
Could It Finally Happen?
The White Sox are prioritizing “pitching depth,” ideally near MLB-ready starters or high upside prospects. With Robert’s contract control (two more years at $20 million each), Chicago could command a solid return if it retains some salary. However, his injury track record (hamstring issues ended his 2025 season early) and two straight down years temper expectations compared to the massive hauls once anticipated, both seasons ending with a wRC+ of 84.
A deal could materialize soon, especially with the holidays approaching and the hot stove accelerating. If no trade happens, Robert remains a key piece for a White Sox team hoping his health rebounds alongside their young core.
After years of rumors, the Luis Robert Jr. saga may finally conclude with a trade this offseason, potentially sending the dynamic outfielder to a contender while giving Chicago the arms it desperately needs. Stay tuned; the next few days could bring resolution.
Main Photo Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
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