Braves should take a risk on the “biggest gamble on the trade market”

The Atlanta Braves have carved out a unique reputation in the offseason: acquiring stars via the trade market without paying full price. This methodical approach has yielded incredible results in the past. Could Alex Anthopoulos work his magic again? Enter Luis Robert Jr., a name that screams potential but comes with its share of risks.

The Trade Market’s Biggest Gamble?

Bob Nightengale recently described Luis Robert Jr. as “the biggest gamble on the trade market,” highlighting the intrigue surrounding the White Sox outfielder. The Sox reportedly want to offload Robert while also moving ace Garrett Crochet.

“The White Sox will definitely trade ace Garrett Crochet this winter, but before they move him, they’d love to unload Robert,” Bob Nightengale wrote.

“The guy is certainly intriguing,” one GM told Nightengale, “but they’ve got a really high price tag on him. You’ve got to hope he finally stays healthy and can be the player everyone envisioned all along. But the White Sox are acting like he’s some big star center fielder and are asking for your top prospects.”

For the Braves, that steep asking price might give pause. Prospect capital is always a critical factor in trades, but the risk with Robert is particularly noteworthy.

A Tale of Two Roberts

The 27-year-old signed a six-year, $50 million deal in 2020 but has struggled to live up to expectations due to persistent injuries. Over his five seasons with the White Sox, Robert has only managed to play more than 100 games once—a glaring red flag.

Financially, Robert is set to earn $15 million in 2025, with two $20 million club options for 2026 and 2027. While his contract offers team-friendly flexibility, his performance must justify the investment.

Robert’s 2024 campaign left much to be desired. He logged just 14 home runs and 25 RBIs alongside a .225/.281/.370 slash line and an alarming 32% strikeout rate. Those numbers fall far short of the $20 million price tag attached to his club options.

However, the bigger picture tells a different story. From 2021 to 2023, Robert showcased elite potential, slashing a combined .287/.331/.511 with 63 home runs and 37 steals across 1,292 plate appearances. His 2023 season, in particular, was stellar: a .264/.315/.542 slash line, 38 home runs, and accolades including an All-Star appearance, a Silver Slugger award, and MVP votes.

The Braves would be betting on Robert regaining that form with a change of scenery and better injury luck.

The Potential Payoff

If Robert can stay healthy, the Braves’ outfield could be unstoppable. Imagine a fully loaded trio of Ronald Acuña Jr., Michael Harris II, and Luis Robert Jr. patrolling the outfield. That combination of power, speed, and elite defense would strike fear into both hitters and pitchers alike.

While the price for Robert may be high, Anthopoulos has never been shy about making bold moves when the potential upside is significant.