MLB Rumors: White Sox' Luis Robert Jr Makes Surprising Statement About Trade Deadline

May 21, 2025
Chicago White Sox center fielder Luis Robert Jr. rounds the bases after hitting home run in 2025 game.

Chicago White Sox outfielder Luis Robert Jr. delivered a refreshingly honest take on his trade deadline prospects, admitting that he doesn’t expect teams to come calling unless his performance turns around. 

“Right now, as my season is going, I don’t think anyone is going to take a chance on me,” the 27-year-old told MLB.com’s Scott Merkin.

Robert’s self-assessment isn’t far off. He’s slashing just .186/.281/.308 with five home runs and 17 RBIs through 44 games—well off his 2023 All-Star pace. 

While he still leads the majors in stolen bases with 17 and plays solid defense in center field, his bat has gone ice cold. Add in a league-worst strikeout-to-contact ratio (52 K vs. 50 H+BB), and it’s easy to see why teams might hesitate despite his team-friendly contract, which runs through 2025 with two $20 million club options for 2026 and 2027.

A Former Star Now in a Holding Pattern

Robert’s comments reflect both personal frustration and the larger issues plaguing a 14–34 White Sox team with little trade leverage. Once viewed as a franchise cornerstone, he’s now battling both poor results and injury history—coming off a 2024 season cut short by a hip flexor strain and a homerless drought that spanned the final 34 games. 

“Everybody here works hard to get the results every day. When you are working hard and the results aren’t there, it’s sad,” Robert admitted.

While a turnaround could make him a trade chip closer to July 31, Robert knows the clock is ticking. His raw tools—speed, power, glove—still flash on occasion, but it’s been a steep fall from his Silver Slugger and 38-homer breakout. Should he get hot, a contending team might take a flyer on his upside. Until then, even Robert isn’t banking on being moved.

Photo Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

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