The MLB offseason has been heating up over the past week or so. Teams have taken advantage of the Winter Meetings that took place in Florida with blockbusting free agency deals that have come along with it.
With free agency also comes trade rumors. Although a large portion of what’s being said never gets past the “rumor” stage, the information is worth noting.
In this case, it has to do with the Chicago White Sox All-Star center fielder, Luis Robert Jr., being connected to the San Diego Padres.
More: Report: Padres still interested in bringing back Luis Arraez
Report: Padres among teams interested in trade for White Sox’s Luis Robert Jr.
MLB insider Francys Romero said over the weekend that the San Diego Padres, along with the New York Mets and Pittsburgh Pirates, are teams that are interested in a trade for Chicago White Sox center fielder Luis Robert Jr.
Romero also mentioned that “multiple industry sources believe Robert Jr. has a strong chance of being traded this offseason.”
Chicago is coming off a third straight season with over 100 losses, and Robert Jr.’s momentum with the team has slowed down tremendously.
In 110 games in 2025, Robert Jr. posted career lows in batting average (.223) and OPS (.661) while hitting just 14 home runs and 53 RBI. However, the 28-year-old had a career-high 33 stolen bases.
The San Diego Padres would most likely move him from center field, as 22-year-old phenom Jackson Merrill has the position duties locked up. Left field could most definitely be upgraded with Jason Heyward being listed as the starter at the position.
If the Padres were able to pull off a deal, they would be trading for a power/speed outfielder who may need a change of scenery to help revive his career.
More MLB news:
- Orioles among multiple teams interested in trade for Brewers’ Freddy Peralta
- Astros’ trade interest in 3B Isaac Paredes: Breaking down Houston’s offseason motive
- Mariners acquire 25-year-old reliever from Nationals via trade
- SP Michael King drawing interest from multiple teams in free agency
- Tigers in line to pursue Alex Bregman after missing out in 202
