The New York Mets could be in the market for a new center fielder at the trade deadline. Brandon Nimmo and Juan Soto are locked in as outfielders, but the Mets may want a reliable player to round out the group.
Jose Siri and Tyrone Taylor have struggled to start the year. Nimmo has started off slow as well, but there is more reason to believe he will figure things out. Bleacher Report’s Kerry Miller suggested the Mets should try and poach Luis Robert Jr. from the Chicago White Sox before the trade deadline.
“With left fielder Brandon Nimmo more than capable of playing center, the Mets do have the flexibility to pursue either a CF or LF,” wrote Miller. “Even so, the list of respectable options available will hinge on how competitive Baltimore and San Francisco end up being. Robert is the big name out there all but certain to be available, but both the Orioles and Giants have multiple outfielders who are likely headed for free agency this winter.”
Luis Robert Jr. signed a six-year, $50 million extension in 2020. He has $20 million club options for 2026 and 2027. He has started off the season slow at the plate and has struggled with injuries in his career. However, when he is playing his best baseball, he is one of the best players in the league.
In 2023, Robert played in 145 games and hit 38 home runs while collecting 80 RBIs. He was named an All-Star and won a Silver Slugger. He is the only reliable hitter on the White Sox, likely weighing on him every time he steps up to bat. Surrounding him with Francisco Lindor, Soto and Pete Alonso could get him back to playing at an All-Star level.
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Robert was a hot name in trade rumors this winter and should be around the trade deadline as well. Robert himself was surprised he was still on the White Sox when opening day arrived.
“Honestly, no,” Robert responded to 670 The Score’s Chris Emma when he asked if he expected to be on the White Sox opening day roster. “I know there were a lot of rumors around there.”
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