White Sox star emerges as Yankees trade focus as Cashman agrees for late hunt

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With Opening Day looming, Yankees general manager Brian Cashman reportedly remains active in trade discussions, with Chicago White Sox outfielder Luis Robert Jr. emerging as a prime target in the organization’s internal conversations.

As the Yankees look to address the gap created by Juan Soto’s departure both offensively and defensively, and amidst a spring training plagued by injuries, Robert represents a potentially transformative acquisition, albeit one that would come at considerable cost. Industry sources indicate the White Sox are exploring the market for Robert, who remains under contract through 2025 with team options extending to 2027.

While not actively requesting a trade, Robert has publicly acknowledged the likelihood of being moved from a White Sox organization deep in rebuilding mode after a disastrous 121-loss campaign last season.

“From the business perspective, yes, I know there is a big chance of me being traded because it makes sense for the team and for the situation,” Robert told MLB.com. “I understand that. That’s something I have to live with and I will have to accept.”

Yankees seek right-handed bat amid depth uncertainty

With Aaron Judge firmly established as the Yankees’ outfield cornerstone and prospect Jasson Dominguez rapidly ascending, adding an established All-Star caliber talent like Robert would infuse power, speed, and defensive excellence into a roster pursuing an edge in a fiercely competitive American League.

The Yankees possess organizational depth but currently lack a proven, multi-dimensional center fielder capable of replacing Soto’s production. Luis Robert Jr., at just 27 years old, fits that profile. Despite playing a limited schedule in 2024 due to injuries, Robert’s ceiling remains exceptionally high.

Luis Robert Jr.: Power-speed threat with All-Star branding

The Cuban-born outfielder, standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 225 pounds, debuted in 2020 and has compiled impressive career statistics since then, including:

• .267 batting average
• .316 on-base percentage
• .474 slugging percentage
• 88 home runs
• 245 RBIs
• 69 stolen bases

Though his 2024 season was limited to 100 games due to injury concerns, he still managed 14 home runs and 35 RBIs. His underlying metrics remained promising, with a 40.7% hard-hit rate and 90.1 mph average exit velocity suggesting his swing mechanics remain sound.

During the 2025 spring training, Robert has posted a .268/.375/.439 slash line, including two homers and a double across 41 at-bats. Perhaps more significantly, he’s drawn six walks despite 13 strikeouts, potentially indicating improved plate discipline.

Financial structure makes Robert an appealing asset

Robert currently plays under one of baseball’s most team-friendly contracts for a player of his abilities. Signed through 2025 at $15 million annually, his deal includes $20 million club options for both 2026 and 2027, with modest $2 million buyout provisions. This cost certainty makes him particularly attractive for contending teams building with financial sustainability in mind.

“If I stay here with my actual contract, it will be just two more seasons: This one and two more,” Robert said. “I don’t know if we are going to be ready to compete for a World Series title in three years.”

What would a Yankees-White Sox trade look like?

Acquiring Robert would undoubtedly require significant prospect capital. Baseball insiders suggest the White Sox would demand a substantial package, potentially including:

• OF Everson Pereira
• SS Roderick Arias
• RHP Cade Smith

Such a move would represent a considerable sacrifice of farm system talent and future flexibility for the Yankees. However, given their urgency to maintain competitive standing and the offensive void left by Soto’s departure, the gamble could prove worthwhile.

The Cincinnati Reds previously explored acquiring Robert and reportedly offered one top-five prospect but balked at including a second high-value prospect. This established market sets parameters for what the Yankees might need to surrender to complete a deal.

Yankees’ risk-reward equation

While Robert’s injury history presents legitimate concerns—he’s exceeded 100 games just once in his career—his potential impact remains enormous. A healthy Robert alongside Judge and Dominguez could form baseball’s most dynamic outfield combination.

For the Yankees, coming off a World Series appearance but now facing significant pitching setbacks, including Giancarlo Stanton and DJ LeMahieu, adding Robert’s bat might represent the defining transaction of their offseason strategy.

Cashman has previously executed late spring acquisitions, most recently securing Jon Berti just before Opening Day 2024. Whether he orchestrates another significant move this year likely depends on Chicago’s asking price and New York’s willingness to assume calculated risk.

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