Luis Robert Jr.'s 2025 season continues spiraling downwards, this time because of injury issues. Before today's game, he was placed on the 10-day injured list (retroactive to June 26) with a left hamstring strain, per a team announcement. The White Sox will also make a corresponding roster move before Tuesday's series opener against the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Initial Speculation
Robert Jr. reportedly suffered the injury during Wednesday's contest against the Arizona Diamondbacks and was removed from the game in the first inning. The timing led some to believe his removal was trade-related, but word came out shortly after that it was because of injury. He has not played since then. Manager Will Venable initially described the injury as day-to-day with the hope that Robert Jr. would not need a stint on the injured list. However, the injury is evidently significant enough to put him on the shelf for a couple of weeks.
2025 Struggles
This hamstring strain is the latest setback in Robert Jr.'s dismal 2025 season. His batting average sits at .185 entering the day, and he has been 35% worse than the league average hitter in 2025 per OPS+. He has still graded out exceptionally well in categories like bat speed, range (OAA), arm value, and sprint speed, but his offensive production has declined significantly.
White Sox Are Now In A Tough Spot
Robert Jr.'s poor production has put the team in a challenging position regarding what to do with him moving forward. 2025 is the latest guaranteed year of his contract, with the White Sox having $20 million team options for 2026 and 2027. For a long time, it was a formality that the team would pick up those options. He looked like a centerpiece of the team as recently as the end of 2023, but that is no longer the case because of his poor performance. The team has reportedly received trade inquiries on him and even stated that they could include money in a deal, but his value is undoubtedly lower than ever.
Potential Corresponding Move
With a corresponding move coming, another outfielder will be called up to replace Robert Jr. on the active roster. Brooks Baldwin is the most likely candidate, as he has slashed a robust .368/.425/.737 with five doubles, two triples, and 11 home runs in 28 games with the Triple-A Charlotte Knights entering the day. The 24-year-old has also appeared in 12 games in center field for the Knights this season.
Luis Robert Jr.'s White Sox Career Is Likely Nearing An End
Injuries and underperformance have derailed what once looked like a promising career for Luis Robert Jr. At just 27 years old, he is still young enough to revitalize his career, but that will likely not be with the White Sox. His time on the South Side is nearing an end.
