Luis Robert Jr. Trade Rumors: White Sox set high bar for dynamic outfielder, per MLB insider
Chicago White Sox star Luis Robert Jr. was somebody many insiders thought would be on the move this past season. However, Chicago held onto him past the trade deadline.
Coming into the offseason, the trade speculation surrounding Robert has only heated up. He is a great player that a team can build around and is still relatively young.
A.J. Pierzynski was joined by MLB insider Ken Rosenthal on a recent airing of Foul Territory. When asked what Robert's market looked like, Rosenthal stated that Robert could be on the move, but it would have to be for the right price.
"Essentially, teams are saying the White Sox are 'asking too high,' and the White Sox are saying 'We're not really asking anything at all, but we're not going to take nothing for Luis Robert Jr.," Rosenthal said.
Rosenthal added that other teams believe Chicago is asking for too much in return for their star. However, they want to get the most value they can get for the 2023 All-Star.
"The problem with Robert is that he has not played that much in the last several years. Last year was another injury-marred season. You're right, the contract is friendly, A.J., if he is healthy," Rosenthal said.
While Chicago views Robert as a star, other teams are concerned with his injury history. After five years in the big leagues, he has only played over 100 games during a season one time.
The White Sox want good value for Luis Robert Jr.
As stated by MLB insider Ken Rosenthal, the White Sox do not want to give up Luis Robert Jr. for nothing. They want a good return for somebody they think so highly of.
"They're looking for one meaningful piece in the return. Doesn't have to be multiple top prospects or anything like that. But, if no one is going to offer them anything more than say, their 15th or 20th best prospects, they might as well keep him," Rosenthal said.
Chicago is not interested in a mid-tier return. The slugger would be much more valuable staying with the club and potentially raising his trade value during the season.
Fans will also want to pay attention to the Juan Soto market. Some of the clubs in the battle for Soto could give Robert a call if they were to miss out on the four-time All-Star.