The New York Yankees had a brief but impactful season with Juan Soto, who helped the team reach its first World Series in 15 years while setting a career-high with 41 home runs. However, Soto’s time in New York may already be coming to an end, as the crosstown-rival New York Mets appear to be the frontrunners to sign the 26-year-old, four-time All-Star by outbidding other suitors.
If they miss out on Soto, the Yankees will need to find a replacement for him in their lineup. While no player on the market matches Soto’s abilities, the team might look to acquire a more affordable, short-term option. MLB insiders have speculated that 27-year-old Cuban center fielder Luis Robert Jr. of the Chicago White Sox could be a potential target.
Robert Jr.’s Performance and Risk Factors
Robert Jr. hit 38 home runs for the White Sox in 2023, earning his first All-Star selection and even receiving some MVP votes. However, his performance took a significant downturn in 2024, making him a riskier option, despite his relatively low salary.
In 2025, Robert Jr. will earn $15 million, and his contract allows the Yankees (or any other team) to part ways with him after that season. He has two more years on his deal at $20 million each, but both are club options, meaning his team can decline to renew his contract after 2025 or 2026, making him a potential free agent.
2024 Struggles and Injury Concerns
Robert Jr.’s struggles in 2024 are a significant concern. The White Sox endured a historically bad season, losing 121 games, and Robert Jr. contributed to that poor performance. He played only 100 games, as he spent several months on the Injured List after a season-opening setback. Upon his return in June, he struggled to regain his form, finishing with a disappointing .225/.281/.370 slash line in 396 plate appearances.
A key concern is Robert Jr.’s injury history. Since his MLB debut in 2020, he has spent time on the IL six times, dealing with various injuries, including a hip flexor strain and a viral infection that caused dizziness and blurred vision. His health remains a major risk for any team considering a trade.
Potential Upside
Despite these concerns, Robert Jr.’s 2023 performance, in which he posted an .857 OPS and a .315 batting average, demonstrates his potential when healthy. However, the White Sox’s current low payroll, which stands at just $40.35 million, means they have little financial motivation to trade Robert Jr. unless a strong offer comes in. Even with a projected payroll of $60.72 million in 2025, the White Sox are likely to hold out for a high asking price for the talented outfielder, whose upside is still considerable.
