The MLB trade deadline is almost upon us. Most expect the Philadelphia Phillies to be extremely active on the trade market, seeking relief pitchers and a boost to the lineup. Their most obvious point to upgrade is center field. Per a report from Francys Romero, they’re keeping a close eye on a major upgrade: White Sox center fielder Luis Robert Jr.
Robert Jr., 27, is one of the most interesting trade pieces at the deadline. After a breakout early in his career, the center fielder signed a six-year, $50 million deal with Chicago, including two team options. Injuries have kept him from realizing his potential. Robert Jr. put it all together in 2023, hitting 38 home runs in 145 games with his usual elite defense and baserunning. Then he missed 62 games in 2024, and his OPS dropped 200 points.
This season, he has been relatively healthy, but his bat has not been there. Robert Jr. is hitting just .206 with 10 home runs. According to Baseball Savant, he’s been worth -4 runs as a batter, a 24th percentile mark. However, he still brings immense value as a baserunner, having already stolen 26 bases. He’s got an 85th percentile range and an 81st percentile arm value in center field. Not quite Gold Glove level, but still a strong performance.
Philly is in need of a serious upgrade. Brandon Marsh has taken a huge step back with the bat, and his platoon with Johan Rojas has been unproductive. Anything would be an upgrade for the Phillies. Adding more range and defense to the outfield is a huge plus, and one of the best base-stealing squads in the MLB getting better on the basepaths makes them elite. And there’s always the chance that Robert Jr. finds his swing; his bat speed remains elite.
It comes down to cost and Chicago’s willingness to sell low. The White Sox hold $20 million team options for the next two years, effectively making him a rental if Philadelphia so wishes. Keep an eye on this situation, as president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski looks to give Philly a boost in this NL East race.
