Mets trade for $50 million All-Star gets new update from insider
The New York Mets are exploring potential upgrades for their outfield as the trade deadline approaches, with a focus on Luis Robert Jr. from the Chicago White Sox. Despite reports of interest, MLB insider Jon Heyman suggests that the Mets' pursuit of Robert might be overstated and not currently a pressing concern. Robert, who signed a six-year, $50 million contract in 2020, is under team control through 2027 and could significantly enhance the Mets' postseason lineup. Although Robert has a low batting average, he leads the American League in stolen bases and has shown improved performance since late April, emphasizing his potential impact. As the Mets evaluate their options, the situation might evolve closer to the trade deadline, potentially altering their approach to acquiring Robert.
Context:
The New York Mets are exploring potential upgrades for their outfield as the trade deadline approaches, with a focus on Luis Robert Jr. from the Chicago White Sox. Despite reports of interest, MLB insider Jon Heyman suggests that the Mets' pursuit of Robert might be overstated and not currently a pressing concern. Robert, who signed a six-year, $50 million contract in 2020, is under team control through 2027 and could significantly enhance the Mets' postseason lineup. Although Robert has a low batting average, he leads the American League in stolen bases and has shown improved performance since late April, emphasizing his potential impact. As the Mets evaluate their options, the situation might evolve closer to the trade deadline, potentially altering their approach to acquiring Robert.
Dive Deeper:
The New York Mets are considering outfield upgrades and have shown interest in Luis Robert Jr., a Silver Slugger from the Chicago White Sox, as the trade deadline nears.
Reports by USA Today's Bob Nightengale indicate the White Sox have received inquiries about Robert, with the Mets among interested parties, while the White Sox have expressed interest in Mets prospect Blake Tidwell.
MLB insider Jon Heyman has downplayed the immediacy of a trade, suggesting that while the Mets have shown interest in Robert before, it is not a current priority for them.
Luis Robert signed a six-year, $50 million deal with the White Sox in 2020, making him a potentially valuable long-term asset for the Mets if acquired.
Despite a low batting average, Robert's performance has improved since April, with a .265/.357/.469 slash line and leading the American League with 15 stolen bases.
The Mets, while performing well, may seek to bolster their outfield for a stronger postseason showing, as their current centerfielder, Tyrone Taylor, has a lower OPS.
The situation regarding a potential trade for Robert could see changes as the trade deadline approaches, possibly increasing the likelihood of a deal.
The New York Mets could be looking for outfield upgrades near the trade deadline. There have been reports about their interest in All-Star Silver Slugger Luis Robert Jr. of the Chicago White Sox.
On Sunday, May 11, USA Today's Bob Nightengale revealed that the Mets are showing interest in Robert.
"The Chicago White Sox finally are starting to get some inquiries on center fielder Luis Robert with the New York Mets recently among the teams checking in and showing interest," wrote Nightengale. "The White Sox are eying 23-year-old Mets starting prospect Blake Tidwell as part of a package in return."
However, MLB insider Jon Heyman has revealed that their current interest in trading for him could be overblown. He noted that they have checked in on him in the past.
"Regarding recent rumors, there’s nothing hot at the moment with the Mets and Luis Robert," Heyman wrote on X. "They’ve checked on him in the past. CF isn’t a necessity but a potential area of interest down the road."
Robert signed a six-year, $50 million deal with the White Sox in 2020. He is under club control through 2027 and could be an upgrade for the Mets in the outfield. Tyrone Taylor, the team's primary centerfielder, has a .648 OPS in 34 games. The Mets are still playing well despite that, but they may not want to rely on Taylor in the postseason.
Robert has just a .186 batting average, but is starting to swing the bat well. His 15 stolen bases lead the American League and he is slashing .265/.357/.469 since April 25. At his best, he has 40 home run potential and could be the final piece for the Mets as they look to make it to the World Series. However, right now, it does not seem like there is much traction in getting a deal done. That could change near the trade deadline.
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