Mets, White Sox Each Rejected Key Player in Major Trade

The blockbuster deal for Luis Robert Jr. could have looked quite different.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 3:20am

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The New York Mets and Chicago White Sox engaged in trade discussions this offseason that ultimately resulted in the Mets acquiring star outfielder Luis Robert Jr. However, the details reveal that each team had to reject a specific player the other side wanted included in the deal before reaching an agreement.

Why it matters

This trade was a significant move for both franchises, with the Mets bolstering their lineup and the White Sox parting with a key player. The behind-the-scenes negotiations provide insight into how complex major league trades can be, with teams carefully weighing the value of different prospects and players.

The details

According to reports, the White Sox initially wanted Mets prospect Brett Baty included in the trade, but the Mets quickly rejected that proposal. The Mets then suggested including Mark Vientos instead, but the White Sox turned that down, as they were not interested in acquiring a right-handed hitting prospect. The final deal saw the Mets send Luisangel Acuna and minor league pitcher Truman Pauley to the White Sox in exchange for Robert.

  • The trade discussions took place this offseason.

The players

Luis Robert Jr.

An All-Star outfielder for the Chicago White Sox who was traded to the New York Mets.

Brett Baty

A top prospect in the Mets' farm system who the White Sox wanted included in the trade but the Mets rejected.

Mark Vientos

A Mets prospect who the team suggested including in the trade, but the White Sox turned down because they were not interested in a right-handed hitting prospect.

Luisangel Acuna

A Mets minor league player who was ultimately included in the final trade package sent to the White Sox.

Truman Pauley

A minor league pitcher in the Mets' system who was also part of the final trade package sent to the White Sox.

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What they’re saying

“The Mets quickly rebuffed that.”

— Jon Heyman, New York Post reporter

“They weren't looking for a hit-first righty batter.”

— Jon Heyman, New York Post reporter

The takeaway

This trade negotiation demonstrates the complex back-and-forth that often goes into major MLB deals, with teams carefully weighing the value of different prospects and players. While the final agreement may have seemed straightforward, the Mets and White Sox had to navigate rejecting specific player requests from each other before reaching a compromise.