The Mets made a significant move to address their outfield needs by acquiring former All-Star center fielder Luis Robert Jr. from the Chicago White Sox on Tuesday night. In exchange, they sent young infielder Luisangel Acuna and pitching prospect Truman Pauley to Chicago.
The Mets had been interested in the 28-year-old since last summer, as center field was a key area to improve. Jose Siri’s impact was minimal after a leg injury early in the season, and Cedric Mullins, acquired from the Orioles at the deadline, struggled with a .182 batting average and .585 OPS before signing with the Rays as a free agent.
Robert, despite his potential, has had an inconsistent bat, averaging 14 home runs and 44 RBI with a .660 OPS over the past two seasons, missing 114 games due to injuries. He had one standout season in 2023, hitting 38 home runs with 80 RBI and an .857 OPS in 145 games. The Mets hope he can reach this level in a stronger lineup than he had in Chicago.
Defensively, Robert is an elite center fielder, providing flexibility for President of Baseball Operations David Stearns. Top prospect Carson Benge may start in left field, easing his transition to the majors.
Robert’s 7 outs above average this season ranked him in MLB’s 93rd percentile, fulfilling Stearns’ goal to enhance run prevention. It’s uncertain whether the Mets will pursue free-agent outfielder Cody Bellinger, especially after trading fan-favorite Brandon Nimmo to the Rangers for Marcus Semien, creating a gap in left field.
Acuna, once a top prospect from the Max Scherzer trade, became expendable due to the Mets’ infield depth. Semien is now at second base, and Bo Bichette was signed for third base on a three-year, $126 million deal. Brett Baty is positioned for a utility infield role, pushing Acuna out of the plans.
The Mets will absorb all $20 million of Robert’s salary this season, with a $20 million club option in 2027 and a $2 million buyout.
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