Mets to Ease In New Outfielder Luis Robert Jr. This Spring

The team plans a gradual approach to integrating the former White Sox star into the lineup.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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The New York Mets acquired outfielder Luis Robert Jr. in a late-night trade last month after he spent 10 seasons with the Chicago White Sox. Robert expressed mixed emotions about the move, saying he can't fully explain the feelings of leaving the only team he's known. The Mets plan to work Robert into the lineup slowly this spring training to help him adjust to his new team and surroundings.

Why it matters

Robert is a talented young outfielder who should provide a boost to the Mets' lineup, but the team wants to ensure a smooth transition rather than rushing him into a starting role right away. Integrating new players carefully is important for team chemistry and performance, especially for a high-profile acquisition.

The details

The Mets acquired the 27-year-old Robert in a late-night trade last month, adding the talented outfielder to their roster. Robert spent the first 10 seasons of his MLB career with the Chicago White Sox. The Mets plan to ease Robert into the lineup during spring training, taking a gradual approach to get him acclimated to his new team and surroundings.

  • The Mets acquired Robert in a late-night trade last month.
  • The Mets will work Robert into the lineup slowly during 2026 spring training.

The players

Luis Robert Jr.

A 27-year-old outfielder who was traded from the Chicago White Sox to the New York Mets in a late-night deal last month.

New York Mets

The Major League Baseball team that acquired Luis Robert Jr. in a trade and plans to ease him into their lineup during 2026 spring training.

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What they’re saying

“I can't really explain the proper emotions I had from being with Chicago the last 10 years,”

— Luis Robert Jr. (The Oneida Daily Dispatch)

The takeaway

The Mets' measured approach to integrating a new high-profile player like Luis Robert Jr. demonstrates the importance of allowing time for a player to adjust to a new team, rather than rushing them into a starting role immediately.