White Sox’s trade nightmare may end soon—and a Cubs rival could help

The Cincinnati Reds tried to make a big splash this offseason with their pursuit of former Chicago Cubs first-round pick Kyle Schwarber, but with Schwarber returning to the Philadelphia Phillies, it seemed like the Reds weren't overly motivated to make a different splash on the free-agent market. Instead, the Reds might be the team to bring an end to the Chicago White Sox's nightmare.

The Enquirer's (subscription required) Gordon Wittenmyer reports that the Reds have re-engaged with the White Sox on a potential trade for center fielder Luis Robert Jr. The White Sox exercised Robert's $20M option for 2026 earlier this season, and despite doing so, they haven't been willing to eat the money in a potential trade of the 28-year-old outfielder.

The club option, along with a 2025 season defined by injuries and offensive regression, was one of the primary reasons why the White Sox weren't able to trade Robert at the trade deadline. Wittenmyer adds that the renewed interest from the Reds is partially tied to their willingness to take on more of his remaining money than they were previously.

Reds pivoting from Kyle Schwarber to Luis Robert Jr. would be a hilarious mistake

Things finally appeared to be clicking for Robert in 2023 when he hit 38 home runs in 145 games while earning American League All-Star recognition. He's been limited ot only 210 games over the last two seasons, and a noticeable decline in his power. Add in the injuries, and it's no surprise that many feel the White Sox are stuck with Robert. While the Reds do need a bat and are in the market for an outfielder, conventional wisdom would suggest they look elsewhere.

Robert has a $20M club-option in his contract for 2027, and for the White Sox, it may make more sense to hold onto him with the hope that he finds an offensive spark to open the 2026 season. If he does, Robert certainly would be among the most coveted hitters at next season's deadline.

In a world where Robert finds his way to the free-agent market next winter, there could be a scenario where the Cubs are interested. Ian Happ and Seiya Suzuki are free agents, and if one of Owen Caissie or Kevin Alcantara is used in a trade for a cost-controlled starting pitcher, Robert could be someone in the team's crosshairs next offseason.