The Cincinnati Reds are back in the mix for a big-name outfielder - and this time, it’s not Kyle Schwarber. After their pursuit of the slugger ended with Schwarber staying put in Philadelphia, the Reds appear to be shifting gears toward a different kind of talent: Luis Robert Jr.
According to multiple reports, Cincinnati has re-engaged the Chicago White Sox in trade talks for Robert, a move that could shake up both clubs heading into 2026. The Reds, who have been relatively quiet on the free-agent front after missing out on Schwarber, might now be positioning themselves to take advantage of a White Sox team that’s clearly in transition.
Let’s unpack why this potential deal has legs - and why it’s not as simple as just plugging Robert into the Reds’ outfield.
The Contract and the Catch
The White Sox exercised Robert’s $20 million club option for 2026 earlier this year, signaling they weren’t ready to give up on the 28-year-old just yet. But despite that vote of confidence, Chicago hasn’t shown much willingness to eat salary in any trade scenario. That’s been a sticking point for potential suitors - until now.
The Reds, reportedly more open to taking on a larger portion of Robert’s remaining contract than they were during the summer, could be the team willing to meet Chicago’s price - both financially and in terms of prospects. That renewed interest has reignited trade discussions that once seemed dead in the water.
The Talent vs. the Risk
On paper, Luis Robert Jr. is a tantalizing addition. He’s a former All-Star who, in 2023, launched 38 home runs over 145 games and looked every bit the five-tool player scouts envisioned when he signed out of Cuba.
But the last two seasons have told a different story - one marred by injuries and a noticeable drop in production. Robert has suited up for just 210 games across two years, and his power numbers have taken a hit.
That’s where the gamble comes in. The Reds are looking for an impact bat, particularly in the outfield, and Robert certainly fits that mold - when healthy. But banking on a bounce-back from a player with his injury history is a high-risk, high-reward move, especially for a club trying to build momentum in a competitive NL Central.
Why It Might Make Sense for Chicago
From the White Sox’s perspective, the decision to hold onto Robert through the 2025 trade deadline was a calculated one. His value had dipped due to injuries and inconsistency, and there wasn’t a market willing to pay what Chicago was asking. But if Robert starts strong in 2026, his trade value could skyrocket - especially with another $20 million club option on the table for 2027.
That option gives the White Sox some leverage. They don’t have to trade Robert now, but if a team like Cincinnati is willing to absorb most of the financial burden and send back promising talent, it could be the right time to make a move.
The Bigger Picture for the Reds
For Cincinnati, this isn’t just about adding a name - it’s about adding the right kind of player to a lineup that needs a jolt. The Reds have young talent, a solid core, and a front office that’s shown a willingness to be aggressive when the moment calls for it. Whether Robert is the right fit remains to be seen, but the interest signals that Cincinnati isn’t content to stand pat after missing out on Schwarber.
What Comes Next?
If Robert stays put, the White Sox will hope he rediscovers his All-Star form and becomes a trade chip at next year’s deadline. If he’s moved, the Reds could be betting on upside - hoping that a change of scenery and a healthier season unlocks the version of Robert that once looked like a franchise cornerstone.
Either way, this is a storyline worth watching. The Reds are clearly looking to make a move.
The White Sox are clearly open for business. And Luis Robert Jr. might just be the player who helps define the direction of both teams in 2026.