Hot Stove League Update: Mets Trade For Luis Robert Jr.

 The long-awaited and much discussed Luis Robert Jr. trade finally went down yesterday with the enigmatic outfielder going to the Mets for a couple of prospects.  Let's break it down:

Mets Get:

Luis Robert Jr. OF.  DOB:  8/3/1997.  B-R, T-R.  6' 2", 225 lbs.  Under Contract 7 yr/$68 M(2020-2026), Club Option for 2027.

2025(White Sox):  .223/.297/.364, 14 HR, 33 SB, 9.3 BB%, 26.0 K%, 431 PA, 1.3 fWAR.

Robert has always had the tools to be a superstar.  He looked like he was headed for superstar territory in 2023 with a line of .264/.315/.542, 38 HR, 20 SB, 4.9 fWAR.  He has struggled with a string of injuries and poor performance since.  The Mets are taking a flyer on him staying healthy and benefitting from a change of scenery.  

White Sox Get:

Luisangel Acuna 2B.  DOB:  3/12/2002.  B-R, T-R.  5' 8", 181 lbs.  Arb Eligible 2029, Free Agent 2032.  

2025(AAA):  .303/.347/.385, 8 SB, 7.4 BB%, 15.6 K%, 122 PA.  

2025(MLB):  .234/.293/.274, 16 SB, 6.7 BB%, 19/2 K%, 193 PA, 0.4 fWAR.

Luisangel is the younger brother of Ronald Jr so the pedigree is there.  Speed/defense guy who might not have enough stick for 2B at the MLB level but can also play SS and CF.  Should find playing time with a rebuilding White Sox team.

Truman Pauley RHP.  DOB:  12/26/2003.  6' 2", 200 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2028.

2025(College- Harvard):  4-6, 4.61, 70.1 IP, 11.64 K/9, 6.14 BB/9. 

2025(A):  0-0, 2.08, 4.1 IP, 6.23 K/9, 8/31 BB/9, 

12'th round draft pick by Mets in 2025.  Will have to improve his control/command to succeed in pro baseball.

Comment:  White Sox end up selling low on Robert Jr.  Mets didn't give up much in players and are free-spenders so don't mind the financial risk of what's left on his contract. The upside is obvious.