MLB Rumors: White Sox enter serious Luis Robert Jr. talks with Mets; Royals put Kris Bubic on radar

The Chicago White Sox have been one of the most active teams this offseason as they look to strengthen their squad after three consecutive 100-loss MLB seasons.

Chicago made their biggest move of the offseason by signing Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami on a reported two-year, $34 million deal on Sunday. However, the Japanese power-hitter's signing isn't the end of the White Sox's offseason dealings as the franchise is reportedly looking to shop All-Star outfielder Luis Robert Jr.

According to MLB insider Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the New York Mets and the Cincinnati Reds are engaged in trade talks for Robert, with the White Sox looking to add pitchers in return for the outfielder.

“Next up for the Chicago White Sox after the Munetaka Murakami signing: They still would like to move CF Luis Robert for pitching depth and are engaged in talks with the New York Mets and Cincinnati Reds,” Nightingale wrote on X.

Meanwhile, the Kansas City Royals are interested in moving starting pitcher Kris Bubic, who will be entering his final season of club control in 2026, per MLB insider Ken Rosenthal.

"The team remains open to moving moving left-hander Kris Bubic, who is projected to earn $6 million in arbitration," Rosenthal wrote. "A trade of righty reliever John Schreiber ($3.8 million projection) or Bailey Falter ($3.3 million) also would create flexibility."

The Royals are reportedly looking to add more power to the hitting order and could seek batting talent in return for Bubic this offseason.

White Sox All-Star Luis Robert Jr.'s defensive ability could make him ideal outfield option for Mets

Although the Mets are interested in Luis Robert Jr., the outfielder is coming off consecutive down years with the White Sox after his All-Star season in 2023, when he hit 38 homers with a 129 wRC+. Roberts managed just 14 home runs last season but salvaged himself on the basepath with a career-high 33 stolen bases.

While Robert won't be an ideal hitting option for the Mets, his defensive ability, highlighted by seven outs above average in 2025, will be a big boost for New York's outfield, which will likely feature Jeff McNeil, Tyrone Taylor, and Juan Soto in 2026.

Edited by Chaitanya Prakash