Per Chelsea Janes of SNY, the Baltimore Orioles are claiming Luis Robert Jr. off waivers from the New York Mets. This clears a logjam in the outfield for the Mets with the return of Juan Soto while also taking the Mets off the hook for Robert Jr.’s buyout if they declined his option. Baltimore will also be taking on Robert’s salary for the remainder of the 2026 season, which is a little under $5 million.
Robert Jr. missed most of the 2026 season with a back injury but was mostly effective when on the field, slashing .223/.303/.399/.702 with 10 home runs, 24 runs, 23 RBIs and two stolen bases in 58 games. Since returning from the injured list, Robert has slashed .222/.283/.454/.737 in 120 PA.
Baltimore has put up some of the worst offensive numbers in center field this year, with the position slashing .220/.310/.341/.651. Robert Jr. is a clear offensive upgrade at the position, bringing needed power into their lineup alongside a plus glove in center field.
It is unknown if Baltimore would consider taking up his $20 million option for 2027.
As a corresponding move, the Mets have called up outfield prospect Nick Morabito. Morabito debuted earlier this year, going 0-for-11 in five games. However, the 23-year-old is hitting .254/.355/.388 (.743 OPS) in 114 games with Triple-A Syracuse this season.
