The MLB trade deadline always brings surprises. However, some moves start gaining traction long before July arrives. Certain players become prime trade candidates as contenders look to add firepower and struggling teams shift toward the future. One name that could dominate the 2025 deadline conversation is Chicago White Sox outfielder Luis Robert Jr. As Mike Axis of CBS Sports notes:
“The ChiSox shipped out ace Garrett Crochet over the winter, but they opted to hold onto Robert, and will instead let him rebuild value this season before making a trade. Robert, 27, is coming off a .224/.278/.379 line in 100 games around injuries in 2024. He’s also a year removed from hitting 38 home runs and playing Gold Glove-caliber defense in center. If he’s great, you can keep him for two more years beyond this one. If he’s bad, you can walk away. Similar to the Miami Marlins and Sandy Alcantara, don’t be surprised if the White Sox act quickly to move Robert, especially if he comes out of the gate strong.”
With a team-friendly contract, elite defensive skills and the ability to impact a postseason race, Robert fits the profile of a player who could generate significant interest. If the White Sox decide to move him, teams like the Houston Astros, Philadelphia Phillies and Cincinnati Reds could be in the mix as they look to bolster their rosters.
Luis Robert Jr’s Contract and Value Make Him an Attractive Target
While Robert has stated that he is tuning out trade speculation and focusing on his game, discussions surrounding his future have been active for some time. The Cincinnati Reds were actively negotiating with the White Sox for Robert this past offseason. However, the teams “could not find a middle ground on players or dollars,” as noted by The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal and Will Sammon. The White Sox were reportedly seeking shortstop prospect Edwin Arroyo and pitchers Chase Burns and Rhett Lowder in return, per Gordon Wittenmyer of the Cincinnati Enquirer. Following the stalled talks, the Reds signed outfielder Austin Hays to a one-year contract, addressing their immediate outfield needs.
Astros’ Outfield Situation
The Astros are also assessing their outfield configuration. Currently, their projected starters include Jose Altuve in left field, Jake Meyers in center and Chas McCormick in right. Ben Gamel, a left-handed hitter, is a leading candidate for the fourth outfielder spot. Jon Singleton and Luis Guillorme are expected to fill the remaining bench spots. Additionally, prospect Zach Dezenzo is making a compelling case for inclusion on the Opening Day roster. Dezenzo has impressed during spring training, maintaining a .371 batting average and demonstrating versatility in the outfield. Astros manager Joe Espada acknowledged Dezenzo’s strong performance, indicating that such efforts are pivotal in earning a spot on the team.
Phillies’ Outfield Concerns
As for the Phillies, they’ve faced scrutiny regarding their outfield depth. Despite offseason acquisitions like Jordan Romano and Max Kepler, concerns persist about offensive production from the outfield. A recent analysis highlighted that, aside from Nick Castellanos, other outfielders have struggled offensively during the postseason, combining for two hits in the NLDS against the New York Mets. While Kepler’s addition aims to bolster the lineup, it remains uncertain if this move sufficiently addresses the Phillies’ outfield concerns.
Main Photo: © Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
