The Mets made their biggest move of the offseason Tuesday night, acquiring centerfielder Luis Robert Jr. from the Chicago White Sox in a deal that finally addresses their most glaring need.
The trade, reported by ESPN’s Jeff Passan after 11 p.m. ET, sends infielder Luisangel Acuña and right-hander Truman Pauley to Chicago for the Cuban outfielder.
It’s the move the Mets had to make.
They couldn’t solve centerfield last season, and when Robert wasn’t available at the trade deadline, they settled for Cedric Mullins from Baltimore. That didn’t work out. After missing the playoffs entirely, president of baseball operations David Stearns wasn’t going to let another season slip away without addressing the position.
Robert brings legitimate star power to Queens. The 28-year-old has made an All-Star team and won a Gold Glove, though he’s been inconsistent the past few seasons. Last year, he hit .223 with 14 homers and 33 stolen bases – not exactly the production you’d expect from a player of his caliber.
But when Robert’s right, he’s electric. The speed-power combination that made him one of baseball’s most exciting young players is still there.
The Mets are getting him at a manageable $20 million for 2026, with a club option for 2027 at the same price. That’s reasonable money for a player with Robert’s upside, especially in today’s market.
Some fans won’t love giving up Acuña, Ronald’s younger brother who’s been showing real power in winter ball. The 22-year-old infielder looked promising in limited big league action and represented organizational depth.
But that’s the cost of getting a player like Robert. The White Sox weren’t going to give him away, and the Mets needed to show they’re serious about competing in 2026.
Now they have thier centerfielder. Whether Robert can return to his peak form will determine if this trade becomes the move that pushed the Mets over the top or just another expensive experiment.
