NEWS: CF Luis Robert Jr. traded to Mets

The Mets added a dynamic centerpiece to their lineup on January 21, acquiring center fielder Luis Robert Jr. from the White Sox in exchange for infielder Luisangel Acuña and a right-handed pitching prospect.

Robert, 27, gives New York a true five-tool presence in the middle of the diamond. In 2024, despite injuries limiting his playing time, he slashed .264/.315/.475 with 14 home runs, 35 RBIs and 23 stolen bases in 100 games for Chicago.

The Cuban native has shown superstar potential, most notably in 2023, when he hit 38 homers and had 80 RBIs and 20 steals, earning an All-Star selection and a Silver Slugger Award. For his career, Robert owns a .271 batting average, 88 home runs, and 99 stolen bases, and also grades out as an elite defender in center field. He won a Gold Glove in 2020, his first season, and was runner-up in NL Rookie of the Year voting.

The Mets parted with Acuña, one of their top middle prospects and the younger brother of Braves star Ronald Acuña Jr. The 22-year-old Acuña made his MLB debut in 2024, hitting .257 with 3 home runs and 12 stolen bases in limited action, while showcasing plus speed and defensive versatility.

Robert is the latest big-name veteran to join the Mets’ in an offseason overhaul after missing the playoffs in 2025. New York signed or traded for infielders Bo Bichette, Marcus Semien and Jorge Polanco, and added free agent relievers Devin Williams and Luke Weaver. Gone are fan favorites Pete Alonso, Edwin Diaz, Brandon Nimmo, and Jeff McNeil.

D. Benjamin Miller, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons; LatinoBaseball.com illustration