The New York Mets made a huge splash earlier this offseason by signing outfielder Juan Soto to a record-breaking $765 million deal. But who will protect him in the lineup? Re-signing first baseman Pete Alonso seems to be the most logical answer. Could president of baseball operations David Stearns also target Chicago White Sox slugger Luis Robert Jr. in a trade?
Center field is still an open question for the Mets heading into 2025. Tyrone Taylor and Harrison Bader accounted for most of the playing time last year. New York’s only major acquisition for this area of the roster was landing Jose Siri in a trade with the Tampa Bay Rays.
Robert Jr. would bring legitimate upside to the position despite his long injury history. He has suited up for more than 100 games in a season just once since making his big-league debut in 2020. But that one year was extremely good – Robert slugged 38 home runs with 36 doubles, 80 RBI, and 90 runs scored while winning his first Silver Slugger Award.
What would it take for the Mets to land the right-handed slugger from the Windy City? FanSided’s Jacob Mountz proposed the following hypothetical trade:
- Mets receive: outfielder Luis Robert Jr.
- White Sox receive: infielder/outfielder Jeff McNeil, shortstop Jett Williams, outfielder Drew Gilbert, and right-handed pitcher Nolan McLean
Outside of McNeil, Chicago would get three of New York’s top 10 prospects in this deal. The Mets would get a lot of upside and flexibility with Robert based on his contract situation. He’s entering the final season of a six-year, $50 million contract. However, his deal also includes club options for 2026 and 2027, valued at $20 million annually.
