Major League Baseball is less than two months away to the Trade Deadline, a huge time for the Los Angeles Dodgers and the rest of the league in their pursuit to bolster their rosters for a stretch run.
The Dodgers sit atop the National League West, being one of the division-leading clubs without much to analyze aside from their roster. A rumored target is Chicago White Sox outfielder Luis Robert Jr., who figures to garner a lot of interest in trade talk throughout the league.
Robert Jr. is not only a potentially elite player, but is playing on a cost-controlled six-year, $50 million contract. His deal has the potential to run through the 2027 season, with two club options in 2026 and 2027.
But making a trade with the White Sox could be a difficult task, with their reported ask being a boatload, per Bob Nightengale of USA Today:
The White Sox would command a package greater than what the Padres gave up for Juan Soto at the 2022 deadline.
The San Diego Padres’ trade for Juan Soto is one that has come back to haunt their club as they gave up arguably the greatest prospect trade package in MLB history. Headlined by blossoming stars C.J. Abrams and MacKenzie Gore, it also included top prospect James Wood, Robert Hassell III, Jarlin Susana and Luke Voit.
For the Dodgers, a package to match that value would be similar to Gavin Stone, Dalton Rushing, River Ryan, Andy Pages and a few other mid-level guys, and even that may not be comparable due to the lack of a truly high-end talent like Abrams.
Since making his Major League debut in 2020, Robert Jr. has a 124 wRC+ with 79 home runs and 218 RBI.
His career in Chicago has been slowed by some injuries, but his on-field production matches the interest he’s receiving. The White Sox are in a clear rebuild, and indications are that the front office is prepared to listen and accept offers on several players on their current roster.
Why does Luis Robert Jr. make sense for the Dodgers
To put it plainly, the Dodgers’ options for their outfield are slim past this season. Teoscar Hernández is a free agent, barring an extension, Andy Pages is an unproven rookie, and James Outman was demoted to Triple-A following a streak of poor play.
In the Minor League ranks, they have no clear-cut option that could step into a Major League lineup and instantly stick. Hernández could fill a corner outfield spot for a few years, but Robert Jr. would solidify their outfield during this current championship window.
Robert Jr.’s ceiling is that of an All-Star caliber centerfielder, to which the Dodgers haven’t had since Cody Bellinger.
However, a deal is unlikely unless the White Sox significantly lower their asking price.
Have you subscribed to the Dodger Blue YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows and giveaways, and stay up to date on all Dodgers news and rumors!
