With the MLB trade deadline right around the corner, the San Diego Padres have been in plenty of rumors. From their interest in Steven Kwan to a potential pursuit of Mason Miller, there hasn’t been an available player the Padres aren’t linked to.
After a report from Mark Feinsand of MLB.com, the Padres have emerged as a suitor for the Chicago White Sox $50 million slugger, Luis Robert Jr.
“Luis Robert Jr. is one of the main trade candidates to watch today,” Feinsand writes. “The Mets and Phillies remain in the mix to some extent, but according to a source, the Padres have emerged as a team to watch. San Diego seems motivated to add an outfielder today.”
Luis Robert Jr. is one of the main trade candidates to watch today. The Mets and Phillies remain in the mix to some extent, but according to a source, the Padres have emerged as the team to watch. San Diego seems motivated to add an outfielder today.
— Mark Feinsand (@Feinsand) July 31, 2025
If the Padres are looking to add an outfielder by the trade deadline, Robert is one of the best possible additions on the market. The 27-year-old slugger, who turns 28 on August 3rd, has had a shaky season.
He hit .185 through June in 2025, and his trade value all but disappeared. But, he’s been on a tear in July, and has potentially made the White Sox a lot of value in the trade market.
Since the start of July, Robert is hitting .353 with a .990 OPS across 15 games and 51 at-bats. He has 18 hits, 13 runs scored, one double, three home runs, 11 RBIs, and five stolen bases.
MORE: Padres considering ‘big’ move at trade deadline, according to Jeff Passan
The former All-Star, Gold Glove center fielder has turned his season around, and while he still has a .653 OPS on the year, he’s been significantly better as of late.
Part of why teams are so interested in Robert is thanks to his incredible 2023 season. He hit .264 with a .857 OPS, was an All-Star, and hit 36 doubles and a remarkable 38 home runs in his best season in the big leagues.
While he hasn’t been the same since, Robert would be a great pickup to pair with Jackson Merrill and Fernando Tatis Jr. in the outfield. Robert has two $20 million club options in 2026 and 2027, and while San Diego could pass, the option for more years of control is appealing.
The White Sox have been stingy in trade talks with Robert, with the Mets and Phillies, along with the Padres, as the three teams most interested in the slugger.
This report from Feinsand suggests that the Padres aren’t just a potential suitor, but they have been picking up steam lately in trade talks. While there’s no guarantee of a deal, this report is a positive sign for the Padres amid ongoing trade talks.
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