A playoff contender added a streaking veteran for the final month of the MLB season. The Baltimore Orioles claimed Luis Robert Jr. off waivers, as first reported Monday by SNY's Chelsea Janes. The New York Mets placed the outfielder on waivers after activating Juan Soto off the injured list on Saturday.
Robert flashed star potential during his six seasons with the Chicago White Sox, winning a Gold Glove during his 2020 rookie campaign and earning All-Star and Silver Slugger recognition with 38 home runs in 2023. But that was the only year he played more than 110 games, and he batted .223/.297/.364 last season before the White Sox traded him to the Mets for infielder Luisangel Acuna and pitching prospect Truman Pauley. The Mets didn't get significant results from Robert, who missed three months with a lumbar spine herniation.
Yet the 29-year-old was beginning to rediscover his power stroke, swatting six home runs with an .841 OPS in August. Despite the strong month, Robert still leaves New York with a modest .223/.303/.399 slash line. The Mets moved several other veterans at the deadline but didn't trade the center fielder, who has a $20 million club option for the 2027 season.
New York never seemed likely to exercise that option, which required a $2 million buyout. Janes noted that Robert's departure saves the Mets $5 million in salary this season because they're over the luxury tax. Soto started his first two games back as the designated hitter, but he can eventually rejoin rookies Carson Benge and A.J.
Ewing in New York's outfield. Instead of potentially losing playing time, Robert joins an Orioles outfield featuring Dylan Beavers, Colton Cowser, and Leodys Taveras. The Orioles are just one game removed from a playoff spot with a 68-69 record after winning seven of their last 10.
Robert will be eligible for their postseason roster if they add him to their active roster before Tuesday.
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