The Cincinnati Reds’ long pursuit of Luis Robert Jr. may just be entering a new phase rather than petering out this offseason. While the Chicago White Sox have been clear about their intentions of re-signing him, the slugging outfielder could still be a crucial addition to Cincinnati’s squad through a trade, but the contract will come with a few stipulations.
There’s no way that the Reds will be willing to pay Robert’s $20 million contract in 2026 and 2027. His OPS has fallen below average for the past two seasons, and he has contributed just 88 RBI in that span. Still, the Reds are in desperate need of offense and a change of scenery could be just what Robert needs.
Luis Robert Jr. could still pay dividends via trade to the Reds if the White Sox pick up his club-option
The Reds have had a front-row seat to Andrew Vaughn’s revival in Milwaukee after the first baseman was traded from the White Sox to the Brewers in June. Perhaps Robert will have a similar resurgence with an NL Central squad. He seems to have a swing that is tailormade for Great American Ball Park.
Robert currently sits at 103 home runs in his five-year career. If he were to play at GABP full time, he would have 117 dingers. His ability to pull the ball in the air, which he did 19.7% of the time in 2025, could translate to quite a few awe-inspiring blasts with the Reds.
Still, Reds fans may be tired of the near-constant buzz surrounding Robert. The former All-Star would cost a number of prospects. Even though Cincinnati’s farm system is among the best in baseball, the loss of big-name players like Cam Collier or Leo Balcazar could sap fan interest. The drawn-out saga may be too much for the Reds to bear.
The Reds’ focus on outfield help, though, may supersede the fan’s response. Cincinnati’s outfielders contributed -3 WAR in 2025. Austin Hays, who contributed 0.8 WAR, is on a mutual option that the Reds are likely to turn down. That will open a significant spot in left field for Robert.
Whether the Reds go for the White Sox outfielder or not, Cincinnati will almost assuredly need outfield help. The outfield free agent market is pretty stacked at the top. Robert may become a risk the Reds are willing to take in order to stay clear of contract negotiations that may quickly get out of control.
