Luis Robert Jr. Trade Rumors: Dodgers in Talks with White Sox for All-Star Outfielder

Dodgers eye Luis Robert Jr. as a potential replacement for Teoscar Hernández amid ongoing offseason maneuvers.

Dodgers’ Postseason Plans Include Big Names

The Los Angeles Dodgers are reportedly exploring options to bolster their outfield as uncertainty looms over the re-signing of Teoscar Hernández. Among the key targets is Chicago White Sox star Luis Robert Jr., whose combination of skill and potential has caught the attention of the reigning World Series champions.

Luis Robert Jr.: Talent with Upside and Risk

At 27, Luis Robert Jr. offers significant appeal. He is owed $15 million in 2025, with team-friendly $20 million club options for 2026 and 2027. Additionally, he does not possess no-trade protection, simplifying potential negotiations.

Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic highlighted Robert’s exceptional abilities, stating, “Robert is the youngest of the right-handed hitters the Dodgers are discussing and carries perhaps the greatest upside.” However, Rosenthal also noted a concern: “Only once in the past four seasons has Robert appeared in more than 100 games.” This lone full season, in 2023, saw Robert excel with 38 home runs, an .857 OPS, and a 12th-place finish in AL MVP voting.

Familiar Trade Ties Between the Dodgers and White Sox

This potential trade isn’t the first time the Dodgers and White Sox have engaged in discussions. Over the past six months, the teams have collaborated on multiple transactions, including a three-team deal at the trade deadline that sent reliever Michael Kopech to Los Angeles and outfielder Miguel Vargas to Chicago.

When it comes to Robert, reports suggest the White Sox are not demanding a haul of top prospects. Instead, they seek a “meaningful piece” in return, which could open the door for swift negotiations once top free-agent outfielders like Hernández and Anthony Santander make their decisions.

A Five-Tool Star with Injury Challenges

Robert’s skill set positions him as a potential game-changer for any team. In 2023, he delivered one of the most well-rounded performances in White Sox history, earning an All-Star nod, hitting .264 with 38 home runs, driving in 80 runs, and stealing 20 bases. His efforts earned him a Silver Slugger Award and recognition as one of the league’s elite players.

However, injuries have marred Robert’s career. In 2024, he managed just 100 games, hitting 14 home runs with 35 RBIs. Despite this, his talent remains undeniable, with his former teammate Eloy Jiménez once describing him as the “next Mike Trout.”

Contract Appeal and Future Potential

A Gold Glove winner, Robert provides not only elite defense but also financial flexibility with cost-effective contract options for 2026 and 2027. At just 27 years old, he represents both short-term impact and long-term value for a team like the Dodgers, who are constantly seeking players to maintain their championship-contending status.

Dodgers’ Offseason Strategy Moving Forward

Should the Dodgers move forward with acquiring Luis Robert Jr., it would signal their intent to prioritize both talent and potential over immediate certainty. While his injury history poses a risk, his ceiling remains incredibly high, and his presence could address critical gaps left by potential free-agent departures.

As negotiations unfold, one thing is clear: the Dodgers are positioning themselves for another dominant run, and securing Luis Robert Jr. could be a pivotal step in that journey.