The New York Mets are beginning to receive calls about outfielder Luis Robert Jr. as the MLB trade deadline approaches, signaling that rival clubs still see value in the former All-Star despite an injury-filled and underwhelming 2026 campaign.
According to Ken Rosenthal and Will Sammon of The Athletic, several teams have expressed preliminary interest in Robert after he returned from the injured list earlier this week. While discussions remain in the early stages, the Mets appear willing to listen as they continue shaping their plans ahead of the August 3 trade deadline.
Robert Has Limited Time to Rebuild His Value
Robert was activated from the 60-day injured list on Monday after missing nearly three months with disc inflammation in his back.
The timing of his return gives him only about two weeks to prove he’s healthy enough to contribute before teams finalize their trade deadline decisions.
The veteran center fielder started each of his first two games back before receiving a scheduled day off Wednesday against the Milwaukee Brewers, appearing only as a pinch hitter. Through his first three games since returning, Robert has gone 1-for-10, with one home run and five strikeouts.
Overall, his 2026 season has been disappointing. In 108 plate appearances, he’s batting just .211/.306/.337 with three home runs, numbers well below what the Mets hoped for when they acquired him over the winter.
Mets’ Gamble on Robert Hasn’t Paid Off
New York took a significant risk when it traded for Robert in January, believing a change of scenery could help the talented outfielder rediscover the form that once made him one of baseball’s most dynamic players.
To land Robert, the Mets sent Luisangel Acuña and pitching prospect Truman Pauley to the Chicago White Sox.
While neither prospect has broken out with Chicago Acuña has struggled offensively and Pauley has battled control issues in Low-A the financial commitment represented the biggest investment for New York.
The Mets assumed Robert’s $20 million salary for 2026 along with a $2 million buyout on his $20 million club option for 2027. Once luxury tax penalties were factored in, the total cost ballooned to approximately $46.2 million.
Unfortunately for New York, the investment has yet to deliver meaningful results.
Injuries and Inconsistency Continue to Define Robert’s Career
Robert’s immense talent has never been questioned.
He still possesses elite bat speed, outstanding athleticism, and the defensive ability to patrol center field at a high level. Those tools continue to intrigue front offices across the league.
The problem has been keeping him on the field and producing consistently when healthy.
Over the past three seasons, Robert has hit just .222/.290/.368 across nearly 1,000 plate appearances, a far cry from the standout production he delivered during his breakout 2023 campaign.
Pitch recognition has remained an issue, with Robert frequently chasing pitches outside the strike zone, while recurring injuries have prevented him from establishing any sustained rhythm.
Despite those concerns, his upside could still make him an attractive buy-low candidate for teams searching for help in center field.
Mets May Need to Cover Salary to Complete a Deal
One obstacle to any potential trade is Robert’s remaining contract.
The Mets have reportedly been hesitant to absorb money in deadline deals, but Robert could become the exception.
He is still owed nearly $8 million for the remainder of the season, including the buyout attached to his 2027 option. Given his injury history and recent struggles, it’s unlikely another club would assume that full financial commitment.
If New York is serious about moving him, it may need to retain part of his salary to increase the number of interested buyers and improve its return.
No Long-Term Fit in New York
Regardless of whether Robert finishes the season strong, there appears to be little reason for the Mets to keep him beyond the trade deadline.
The organization is not expected to exercise his expensive 2027 club option, and the team’s future outfield is already taking shape.
With Juan Soto, Carson Benge, and A.J. Ewing expected to occupy regular outfield roles—and Jorge Polanco serving primarily as the designated hitter there are few everyday opportunities available for Robert.
Interim manager Andy Green is expected to continue giving Robert regular playing time over the next several games, hoping he can showcase his health and abilities for interested teams before the deadline.
Several Contenders Could Enter the Mix
The market for center fielders is relatively thin this summer, which could help Robert generate more interest despite his struggles.
Among the teams that could explore a deal are the Arizona Diamondbacks, Houston Astros, St. Louis Cardinals, Cleveland Guardians, Baltimore Orioles, San Diego Padres, Tampa Bay Rays, and Philadelphia Phillies. The Texas Rangers could also pursue a right-handed hitting outfielder to strengthen their lineup.
Other center field options expected to be available include Daulton Varsho, while controllable alternatives such as Jake McCarthy, Jacob Young, Colton Cowser, and TJ Friedl may also attract attention.
Robert Could Be One of Several Mets Departures
Luis Robert Jr. is far from the only player drawing trade speculation.
The Mets are expected to be active sellers over the final days before the deadline, with impending free agents Freddy Peralta, Clay Holmes, A.J. Minter, Tyrone Taylor, and Brooks Raley all viewed as potential trade candidates.
Although there has been discussion about extending Holmes or offering him a qualifying offer after the season, current expectations still point toward a trade.
The Mets may also consider moving controllable players such as Luke Weaver and Huascar Brazobán if the right offers emerge.
With the trade deadline fast approaching, Robert’s performance over the next two weeks could play a major role in determining whether the Mets can salvage value from one of their biggest offseason gambles.
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