What to do with Luis Robert Jr. is one of the main decisions the White Sox face this offseason. There are arguments for and against trading the former star center fielder, and the organization has evidently decided on its plan of attack. Bob Nightengale of USA Today reported that the White Sox would “love to” trade Robert Jr.
Robert Jr.’s volatile trajectory in recent years is well documented. He had the best season of his career in 2023, only to follow it up with a career-worst 2024 campaign. Add in his injury history, and it is now unclear what version of himself he will be moving forward. Robert Jr.’s talent is undeniable. When he is right, he is one of the best players in MLB. But his inconsistent performance and durability issues have now formed a cloud over him.
On the surface, trading Robert Jr. at his lowest value to date makes little sense. It seems fairly likely that he will be better in 2025 than he was this past season, which would make it foolish to trade him now. However, there are other factors.
Robert Jr. is the team’s second-best trade chip after Garrett Crochet. While 2024 looks like an anomaly based on what Robert Jr. accomplished previously, he is not guaranteed to bounce back. Another significant injury could also interfere with his career trajectory and trade value. The White Sox may want to cut their losses, unload him now, and ensure they get something significant for him before his trade value potentially deteriorates even more. Robert Jr. should still fetch a decent return even after a down season because of his track record and team-friendly contract should his team options for 2026 and 2027 get exercised.
The financial aspect might also be a significant factor in this situation. Robert Jr. is currently the team’s second highest-paid player and will make $15 million in 2025. There has also been speculation that the White Sox want to cut payroll. The team reportedly suffered “substantial losses” in 2024, and getting Robert Jr.’s salary off the books could be an avenue to save money. While trading Robert Jr. to save money would be shortsighted, one cannot rule out that possibility.
Thankfully, Nightengale also reported that the White Sox do not seem inclined to trade Robert Jr. just for the sake of trading him. Nightengale added that the White Sox would still expect a haul for him, “The guy is certainly intriguing,” one GM said, “but they’ve got a really high price tag on him. You’ve got to hope he finally stays healthy and can be the player everyone envisioned all along. But the White Sox are acting like he’s some big star center fielder and are asking for your top prospects.” Clearly, Chris Getz and the White Sox front office values Robert Jr. like the player he was in 2023, not the version that struggled last season.
The MLB hot stove should heat up soon as the Winter Meetings approach in a few weeks. The White Sox likely will not add anyone of significance but could still have an integral role in how this offseason plays out across the league. The team has two substantial trade chips in Crochet and Robert Jr., who will not only help a contending team but also help reshape the future of the White Sox.
