As the 2025 MLB trade deadline looms on July 31 at 6 p.m. EST, the New York Yankees, sitting atop the standings, have emerged as a prime contender to land Chicago White Sox star center fielder Luis Robert Jr. The White Sox, mired in last place, are open to moving the 2023 All-Star and Silver Slugger, whose talent could fetch a haul of young prospects.
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Despite a down year, Robert, 27, remains a tantalizing trade target. Ahead of Tuesday’s matchup against the Houston Astros, he was slashing a modest .177/.265/.281 with five home runs and 24 RBI over 58 games in 2025. However, this follows a 2024 season where he hit .224/.278/.379 with 14 homers and 35 RBI in 100 games, and a standout 2023 campaign where he smashed 38 home runs. A change of scenery could reignite the dynamic outfielder’s potential.
White Sox general manager Chris Getz confirmed Friday that teams are circling Robert, per The Chicago Sun-Times’ Vinnie Duber. “[Teams are] expressing interest; they’re continually doing that,” Getz said. “We’re not actively making phone calls on behalf of any player. Obviously, as you approach the trade deadline, that will pick up.”
MLB insider Francys Romero reported Tuesday that the Yankees, alongside the Seattle Mariners and Philadelphia Phillies, are teams to watch in the Robert sweepstakes. “Luis Robert Jr. continues to draw attention as a potential trade piece,” Romero noted, citing industry sources.
Luis Robert Jr. continues to draw attention as a potential trade piece.
Teams like the Yankees, Mariners, and Phillies are expected to be in the conversation ahead of the trade deadline, according to industry sources.
— Francys Romero (@francysromeroFR) June 11, 2025
If acquired by the Yankees, Robert would likely vie for playing time with current center fielder Trent Grisham Jr., who has been productive in 2025, slashing .240/.344/.481 with 13 home runs and 27 RBI through 56 games. The competition could push both players to elevate their game, bolstering New York’s outfield as they chase a World Series title.
With the trade deadline fast approaching, all eyes are on whether the Yankees and White Sox can strike a deal to send Robert to the Bronx, potentially reshaping the AL playoff race.