All-Star Outfielder Claimed off Waivers Amid Late-Season Revival
An American League team claimed a former All-Star outfielder off waivers from the New York Mets on Monday.
The Baltimore Orioles claimed former New York Mets outfielder Luis Robert Jr. off waivers shortly before the end of the MLB season, as first reported Monday by SNY's Chelsea Janes. Robert, a veteran known for his impressive performances during his six seasons with the Chicago White Sox, was placed on waivers by the Mets after activating Juan Soto from the injured list on Saturday.
Robert's star potential became evident throughout his tenure with the White Sox, earning him a Gold Glove during his 2020 rookie season, as well as All-Star and Silver Slugger recognitions in 2023, where he hit a remarkable 38 home runs. However, he only played more than 110 games in a single season once, and his performance dipped to a .223/.297/.364 slash line last year before being traded to the Mets for infielder Luisangel Acuna and pitching prospect Truman Pauley.
Despite the Mets' disappointment with Robert's performance, the 29-year-old outfielder made a resurgence in August, recording six home runs and an .841 OPS. However, his impact on the Mets' performance was limited, resulting in a .223/.303/.399 season overall. The Orioles, in need of a boost, marked him as a valuable addition to their roster.
The Mets had made several other moves at the deadline but decided against trading their center fielder, who is owed a $20 million club option for the 2027 season. They also avoided incurring a $2 million buyout, which would have saved them $5 million in salary this season, as they were over the luxury tax.
Soto had made his first appearances back in a designated hitter role with the Mets, but there is potential for him to return to the outfield alongside rookies Carson Benge and A.J. Ewing. For the Orioles, Robert joins a lineup with Dylan Beavers, Colton Cowser, and Leodys Taveras. With the Orioles sitting just one game away from securing a playoff spot, Robert's addition could provide the necessary spark to propel them to the postseason, provided they can secure his active roster spot before Tuesday.
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